Risk Factors
Often diabetes goes undiagnosed because many of its symptoms seem harmless or go unrecognized. Recent studies indicate that the early detection of diabetes and proper treatment can decrease the chance of developing the complications of diabetes.
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You may be at risk for diabetes if you:
- Have an A1C ≥ 5.7
- Have IGT and/or IFG
- Are 45 years of age or older
- Are overweight or obese (BMI greater than or equal to 25) View BMI chart
- Have a family history of diabetes
- Are physically inactive or exercise less than 3 times per week
- Have low HDL cholesterol (Less than 35 mg/dL) and/or high triglycerides (Greater than 250 mg/dL)
- Had gestational diabetes or gave birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds
- Lead a sedentary lifestyle
- Are suffering from hypertension or high blood pressure greater than 140/90 mm/Hg
- Belong to a high risk ethnic group (e.g., Non-Hispanic Blacks, Hispanic/Latino Americans, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, and American Indians and Alaska Natives)
The prevalence of diabetes has been significantly increasing in children and adolescents in the last decade. It is recommended that children ages 10 and over or who have reached puberty (if onset is earlier) are screened for pre-diabetes and diabetes with a fasting blood glucose test every three years if they meet the following criteria:
Plus any two of the following:
- Family history of type 2 diabetes in a first- or second- degree relative
- High risk race or ethnicity, such as Non-Hispanic Blacks, Hispanic/Latino Americans, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, and American Indians and Alaska Natives)
- Exhibits signs of elevated blood glucose levels, insulin resistance, or conditions associated with insulin resistance, such as high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, or PCOS.
- Maternal history of diabetes or gestational diabetes during the child's gestation
The risk factors listed above are meant to increase your awareness of diabetes. If you are 45 or older, then contact your physician to be tested for diabetes. Individuals younger than 45 should also be tested by their physician if they have any of the risk factors above. Weight loss and regular physical activity has been shown to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.
