FOOTSCRAY’S Western Hospital is working hard to fight one of Australia’s biggest killers.

The hospital has been holding studies to investigate the link between low vitamin D in patients and the risk of developing diabetes.

Gordon Randall, who recently participated in the study, said he originally joined as a way to help the community.

“I rang wanting to help the community better cope with this epidemic, but I ended up with lots of positives,” he said.

Mr Randall said there were unexpected positives gained by joining the study.

“I know more on how to combat this silent killer and I have made many changes to my diet and lifestyle habits,” he said.

“I am now much healthier.”

Professor Peter Ebeling, Chair of the Department of Medicine at Western Health, said diabetes was a major issue for residents living in the western suburbs.

“Diabetes is particularly prevalent in the western suburbs,” he said.

“An estimated 275 Australians develop diabetes every day.”

The hospital is looking for a further 160 participants at risk of developing diabetes to take part in a six-month survey.

For more information call Anni Ang on 8345 7075.