The NHS has emphasized the importance of a quick and simple test that can help gauge your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. While the test does not provide a diagnosis, the health service describes it as “possibly the most important thing you do today” for your health.
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or the insulin produced is ineffective. Insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, regulates blood sugar levels. Without proper insulin function, blood sugar can rise to dangerous levels. Unlike type 1 diabetes, which is caused by immune system issues and is not preventable, type 2 diabetes can often be managed or avoided through lifestyle choices.
The NHS warns that untreated type 2 diabetes can lead to severe health complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, stroke, and nerve damage. Managing the condition typically involves diet changes, regular exercise, and medication if needed. Importantly, it may be possible to prevent or even reverse type 2 diabetes by losing weight and improving dietary habits.
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To check your risk, NHS recommends using Diabetes UK’s online risk tool, which takes just a few minutes to complete. Before starting, you’ll need a tape measure and scales, as waist circumference and obesity are important risk factors. A waist measurement over 35 to 40 inches significantly increases risk.
The test also gathers information on ethnicity and personal health to provide a more accurate risk assessment. People from Black African, African Caribbean, and South Asian backgrounds are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes at an earlier age.
It’s important to note that the tool is not a diagnostic test but rather an indicator of your likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes within the next 10 years. If the test suggests you are at risk, or if you have concerns about your health, consulting a healthcare professional is strongly advised. The tool may not accurately assess risk for individuals with a history of gestational diabetes.
Users must be over 18 years old to use the tool, and pregnant women are advised not to take the test as the results will not be reliable.
The NHS highlights common symptoms of type 2 diabetes, including frequent urination, extreme thirst, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. If you experience any of these or other warning signs, seek medical advice promptly.
Taking a moment for this quick assessment could be a crucial step toward protecting your health and preventing serious complications related to diabetes.