Type 2 Diabetes Guide

Type 2 Diabetes
What Causes Diabetes?
Insulin Resistance
Signs of Diabetes
Hypoglycemia
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Type 2 Diabetes Screening


Regular diabetes screening is recommended if you have been showing symptoms of type 2 diabetes. The number of people diagnosed with diabetes continues to grow every year, in both children and in adults. Diabetes can lead to additional health conditions and treatment is needed to maintain optimal health and to avoid complications.

There are many risk factors for type 2 diabetes including:

  • High body weight - being overweight is a significant risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes.

  • Inactive lifestyle - exercise has many health benefits, including lowering blood glucose levels.

  • Family history - especially if a close relative has been diagnosed with diabetes, or if you have had gestational diabetes.

  • Heart disease risks - for instance, high blood pressure, high triglyceride levels, and poor cholesterol (high LDL, the "bad" cholesterol; and low HDL, the "good" cholesterol).

  • Ethnic background - some ethnic groups are at higher risk for diabetes.
  • Age - the older you are, the higher the risk, although type 2 diabetes can be diagnosed in children too.

It's also important to recognize the signs of diabetes. If you have been showing symptoms or have risk factors, it's time to see your doctor for an assessment. Your doctor will discuss these with you and determine whether or not to order a diabetes blood test. The fasting blood glucose test is the test that's most commonly used to diagnose diabetes. The test is usually repeated to ensure the diagnosis is accurate.

Your doctor can advise you whether you are considered high-risk for developing type 2 diabetes. A simple diabetes screening will determine whether you have the disease.

 

The information on this website is based on our own research and personal experience, and is not a substitute for medical advice. Questions about your health and individual situation should be directed to your doctor.