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Learn Your Risk to Take Control of Your Health
Some small steps could help millions of people prevent or delay a disease that has reached epidemic proportions in the United States.
"Before type 2 diabetes, people usually develop pre-diabetes. Their blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed with diabetes," said Maureen Sendrowski, RN, MPH, preventive health program manager for VNA Care Network & Hospice.
Diabetes increases people’s risk for a host of other health problems, including heart disease, vision loss, kidney disease, stroke, and nerve damage.
"Knowing if you have pre-diabetes is really an opportunity for a healthier life. A major study showed that those at risk for type 2 diabetes can completely stop or put off developing the disease," said Maureen. "The goal is to lose five to seven percent of their weight by increasing physical activity and following a reduced fat and lower calorie diet."
Are you at risk for pre-diabetes?
If one or more of the following applies to you, talk to your doctor about your risk for developing pre-diabetes and if you should be tested.
- I am 45 or older.
- I am overweight and have a body mass index over 25.
- I have a family history of type 2 diabetes.
- I am African-American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Asian-American, or a Pacific Islander.
- I had gestational diabetes while pregnant or gave birth to a baby weighing more than nine pounds.
- I have blood glucose levels that are above normal.
- I have high blood pressure.
- I have a low level of “good” or HDL cholesterol or a high triglyceride level.
- I am physically active fewer than three times a week.
- I have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- I have skin around my neck or in my armpits that appears dark, thick, and velvety.
- I have blood vessel problems affecting my heart, brain, or legs.
- I routinely sleep five and one-half hours or less each night.