Diabetes Risk Factors (Cont.)

Diabetes Risk Factors: Getting Tested

Anyone 45 years of age or older should consider getting tested for diabetes. If you are 45 or older and overweight (see BMI Calculator), getting tested is strongly recommended. If you are younger than 45, overweight, and have one or more of the diabetes risk factors, you should consider diabetes testing. Ask your doctor for a fasting blood glucose test or an oral glucose tolerance test. Your doctor will tell you if you have:
 

Diabetes Risk Factors: Reducing the Risk

You can do a lot to lower your chances of getting diabetes. Reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by:
 
  • Exercising regularly
  • Reducing fat and calorie intake
  • Losing a little weight.
     
Lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels also helps you stay healthy.
 
Making big changes in your life can be hard, especially if you are faced with more than one change. You can make it easier by taking these steps:
 
  • Make a plan to change behavior
  • Decide exactly what you will do and when you will do it
  • Plan what you need to get ready
  • Think about what might prevent you from reaching your goals
  • Find family and friends who will support and encourage you
  • Decide how you will reward yourself when you do what you have planned.
     
Your doctor, a dietitian, or a counselor can help you make a plan.
 
Here are some of the areas you may wish to change to reduce your risk of diabetes.
(Diabetes Risk Factors Continued: Page 3)

Pages:

Previous 1 2 3 Next

Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD