One in three people in the Netherlands will develop age-related diabetes at some stage in their lives and almost half the population will have early stage symptoms, according to new research by doctors at the Erasmus teaching hospital in Rotterdam.

The researchers also say one in 11 people will have to use insulin to keep their Type 2 diabetes under control. The research is based on a 14-year study of 10,000 people over the age of 45 who lived in the same neighbourhood in Rotterdam.

The researchers say the results underscore the importance of taking preventative measures at a young age, ensuring youngsters eat properly and take exercise.

According to broadcaster Nos, diabetes cost the Dutch health system €1.7bn in 2011, of which most was spent on people with Type 2.

Read the research (English)