Diabetes in Sport

Sarah Bool Excerpts

Wednesday 3rd September 2025 Commons Chamber

[Chris Bloore (Redditch) (Lab)]

It is a real privilege to speak on the vital topic of diabetes and sport. I thank Chris Bright and the Diabetes Football Community, Breakthrough T1D UK and Diabetes UK for their invaluable support and work.

I am so grateful to the many people who have contacted me with their stories, which have been both uplifting and heartbreaking. The fact that we are debating this issue in the Chamber is a huge moment for those who have championed it for a very long time. I hope it marks the start of a national conversation about unlocking the potential of young athletes with diabetes, reassuring their families, and supporting the incredible volunteers and coaches who make grassroots sport such an asset.

Diabetes affects 12 million people in the UK. That means that one in five adults are living with diabetes or pre-diabetes. It is not only a serious condition in itself but a gateway to other devastating health problems. Each week in this country, diabetes contributes to more than 980 strokes, 184 amputations, 680 heart attacks and 3,000 cases of heart failure. It accounts for almost 30% of cardiovascular disease deaths. This is a public health challenge on an immense scale. The good news is that physical activity is one of the most powerful tools we have to combat those outcomes. Exercise improves how effectively the body uses insulin, whether naturally produced or injected, and helps to keep blood glucose levels within the target range.

[Sarah Bool (South Northamptonshire) (Con)]

As a type 1 diabetic myself, I completely agree with what the hon. Member says. Exercise is an excellent way of moderating blood sugar levels, but it can also bring stresses and strains, as diabetics do worry about hypoglycaemia, which I am sure he will come to. I am a big fan of anything we can do to support people to take up sport, so I congratulate him on securing this debate.

[Chris Bloore]

I thank the hon. Member for her contribution. I will come on to hypos, as we call them, in a minute, but she is right that reassurance and education are so important.