Beth Hill

Many people have never heard of sepsis, or if they have, people are often confused about what it is, and what signs to look out for. However, sepsis kills 48,000 people in the UK every year, which is more than breast, bowel and prostate cancer deaths combined. If it isn’t treated immediately as a medical emergency, it can take someone’s life in under 24 hours. Sepsis is the body’s over-reaction to an infection or injury, which causes the immune system to attack its own organs and tissues. It affects 245,000 people every year in the UK and is responsible for 1 in 5 deaths worldwide (11 million people). If not caught quickly enough, sepsis can result in organ failure, amputation and death. However, with early diagnosis it can be treated with intravenous antibiotics and fluids, and the outlook is often good for the majority of patients who seek urgent medical attention. Sepsis is triggered by any infection or injury (no matter how minor either may seem), and can affect anyone, regardless of existing health conditions. Some of the most common causes of sepsis in both adults and children are from urinary tract infections, infected cuts or bites, a wound from trauma or recent surgery and chest infections. The UK Sepsis Trust was founded in 2012 by NHS consultant, Dr Ron Daniels BEM. We work tirelessly to raise awareness of the life-threatening condition, instigate political change for better outcomes for sepsis patients, educate healthcare professionals, and provide vital support to people who have been affected by sepsis. The Trust offer a free, confidential listening service facilitated by our team of specialist sepsis support nurses, as well as support groups specific to our service user’s circumstances. The UK Sepsis Trust registered charity number (England & Wales) 1158843 (Scotland) SC050277.