England Rugby Star Henry Slade Launches Tackle Diabetes Campaign

Henry Slade, the England rugby player, is spearheading the Tackle Diabetes campaign in partnership with Sanofi to raise awareness of Type 1 diabetes. Having been diagnosed with the condition at the age of 18, Slade understands the daily challenges it presents. His personal experience drives him to address the stigma and misconceptions surrounding the disease, while emphasizing the importance of early detection.

Every time Slade’s daughters express thirst, a wave of concern washes over him. The thought that they might develop diabetes mirrors his own experience, which began just before his professional rugby career took off. “It’s a worry that’s always there,” he said, reflecting on the moments when his children ask for water. “Every time they tell me they are thirsty, I always have a little panic. But it’s just kids being thirsty; so far they’re okay.”

Slade’s journey with diabetes commenced during a pivotal time in his life. Diagnosed one week before starting his A-levels and shortly before leaving home for the first time, he faced a whirlwind of changes. His father has also lived with Type 1 diabetes since the age of 31, giving Slade a unique perspective on the condition. “I was definitely more aware than I’d say your average Joe,” he noted, acknowledging his father’s struggles with managing the disease.

In the UK, over 400,000 individuals currently live with Type 1 diabetes, a number that continues to rise. The condition incurs direct healthcare costs exceeding £1.9 billion annually. A significant misconception persists that the disease results from poor lifestyle choices; however, it is an autoimmune condition with an unknown cause. Alarmingly, more than 25% of individuals with diabetes in the UK remain undiagnosed, indicating a need for improved awareness and early detection methods.

Slade was fortunate to receive his diagnosis before developing symptoms, having tested his blood glucose levels using a friend’s monitor. Recent advancements allow for detection of Type 1 diabetes prior to the onset of symptoms, which is crucial as it facilitates earlier support and reduces the risk of serious complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Although early detection is not yet available through the NHS, two significant studies are underway: ELSA for children and t1dra for adults, both utilizing a simple finger prick test.

Managing diabetes as an international rugby player poses unique challenges. Slade requires insulin injections before matches and even at halftime. Despite these hurdles, he has proudly earned 72 caps for England, including participation in the recent tour of Argentina, while achieving significant success with his club, Exeter Chiefs.

To manage his condition effectively, Slade uses a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), which tracks his blood sugar levels. “I tend to put mine on the back of my arm, probably the place which gets hit the least in rugby,” he explained. The device sends notifications to his phone every five minutes, providing real-time blood sugar information. “That has been a game changer,” he added, emphasizing how vital it is for his career and overall wellness.

The mental load of diabetes is heavy, with Slade describing it as the first thought upon waking and the last before sleeping. “Every decision you make, you’re thinking about how will this affect my blood sugar?” he reflected. As a rugby player, he needs to consume a significant amount of food, requiring between eight to twelve insulin injections daily. The adrenaline from playing can also affect his blood sugar levels, so he takes precautionary measures before and during games to manage it effectively.

“I think I’ve always been of the mindset that if your blood sugars are in a normal range, there is no difference between you and anyone else,” Slade stated. His message is clear: with proper management, diabetes should not hinder one’s aspirations. “Never let it stop you; never let it hold you back from doing what you dream to do.”

The Tackle Diabetes campaign aims to educate the public about Type 1 diabetes, dispel myths, and underscore the necessity of early detection. For further information on Type 1 diabetes, visit nhs.uk, and for details on early detection initiatives, check out elsadiabetes.nhs.uk and t1dra.bristol.ac.uk.