We all know that diabetes is an illness with many serious complications. It often does not cause symptoms for years and is therefore diagnosed commonly after someone has had a stroke, heart attack or kidney failure. There are several risk factors for diabetes. It is important to identify one’s risk for diabetes and take the necessary steps to prevent it or reverse it in its early stages. You have the power to lower your risk for diabetes.
The risk factors are:
1) You are a male.2) You are 45 or older.3) You have a parent or sibling who has diabetes.4) You are overweight.People with higher body mass index (BMIs) are at a higher risk. Losing 5 to 10% of body weight lowers your risk.5)You are African American, Native American, Latino, Asian American or Pacific Islander.6)You have high blood pressure (140/90 or higher).7)You have low “good” HDL cholesterol (less than 40) or high triglycerides (greater than 150).8)You have prediabetes. You have high blood sugar but don’t have diabetes yet.9)You are inactive. Get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity five days a week.10)You had gestational diabetes or gave birth to a baby who weighed more than 9 pounds.
The more of these risk factors you have, the greater your chance of developing diabetes.
Calculate your risk for diabetes at:https://www.diabetes.org/are-you-at-risk/diabetes-risk-test/
If you think you are at risk for diabetes talk to your doctor about getting tested as soon as possible.
Disclaimer: The information present is intended to provide general education. The information provided does not constitute medical or healthcare advice for any individual and is not a substitute for medical and other professional advice and service.
