The NHS is calling on people to take action to help prevent a type of diabetes that can be avoided. NHS data reveals that nine out of 10 people in England with diabetes have Type 2, which the health servicesays is 'largely preventable'.

The NHS Healthier You Programme has been created to support patients in managing their weight and making major lifestyle changes to ward off Type 2 diabetes. The initiative offers a range of additional support, including one-to-one personalised guidance, nutritional advice, and assistance with maintaining physical activity.

A study by Manchester University examining the programme discovered that participants' risk of developing Type 2 diabetes dropped by 37%. Additionally, those taking part shed an average of 3.3kg.

Dr Clare Hambling, national clinical director for Diabetes and Obesity at NHS England, said: "This transformative NHS programme is improving the nation's health and empowering people across England to lead healthier lives, which is fantastic. Type 2 diabetes is a growing concern with millions of people affected and, unfortunately, it can increase the risk of major health problems such as heart attack, stroke, amputation, kidney failure and sight loss, as well increasing the risk of certain types of cancer.

"Doing nothing on this major public health challenge is not an option for the NHS, so we will continue to develop and rollout world leading initiatives such as our Heathier You Programme to help people take action to prevent Type 2 diabetes."

You're eligible for referral to the scheme if you're at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. A simple and swift method to assess your risk level is through the NHS-promoted online Know Your Risk tool.

Simply answer a few questions and you'll discover whether you're at low, medium, high, or very high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Based on your results, you'll either receive additional information or a letter to present to your GP for further assistance.

Health Minister Baroness Merron commented: "Preventing illness before it takes hold is at the heart of our mission to build an NHS fit for the future. This programme is proof that with the right support, people can take control of their health and dramatically reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

"Reaching nearly one million participants is a tremendous milestone, but we know there is more to do so we will continue to invest in prevention to transform our NHS."

• ITV's Dr Amir Khan inundated with support after woman saved in restaurant

• Woman 'left vomiting on hospital floor for five hours' as staff 'walked straight past'

The Diabetes Prevention Programme is offered across England by all integrated care systems through five providers. These are collaborations between the NHS and organisations that cater to health and care needs in specific regions throughout England.

If you think you could gain from participating in the programme, a comprehensive list of providers, along with their contact information, can be found here.