Diabetics are being urged to have regular health checks as the rate of stroke and kidney failure among people with this condition hit record levels.

Diabetes Ireland is reporting a 62% in kidney failure among diabetics between 2006 and 2010 and a 36% rise in strokes over the same period.

4,300 diabetics were treated for kidney failure in 2010 – most required dialysis 3 to 4 times a week.

Diabetes Ireland says people need to be aware that high blood pressure can have a hugely damaging effect on their health and they need to under regular medical checks.