What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Diabetes occurs when blood glucose (sugar) levels rise higher than normal. This is also called hyperglycemia. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes typically starts when muscle, liver, and fat cells do not use insulin well. This is called insulin resistance. As a result, the body requires additional insulin to help glucose enter cells. If you have type 2 diabetes, the pancreas makes extra insulin. However, with time the pancreas cannot make enough insulin, and blood glucose levels rise.
Why should I take the Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test?
An estimated 84 million American adults are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a serious disease that can lead to complications such as kidney failure, heart disease, stroke, blindness, and amputations. However, type 2 diabetes does not have to be permanent. It can be prevented or delayed by making healthy lifestyle choices.
On March 26th, we encourage you to take the one minute Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test. After you take the test, please share it with friends and family.
In the anonymous test, you will answer questions such as, “Do you have a family history of diabetes?” and “Are you physically active?” to learn your diabetes risk. The good news is you can manage your risk for type 2 diabetes by making healthy lifestyle choices.
What if I score higher than 5 on the test?
If you score a 5 or higher on the risk test, you are at an increased risk for having type 2 diabetes. However, only your doctor can make a diagnosis of diabetes or prediabetes. Talk to your doctor to determine if you need additional testing.
Resources cited:
American Diabetes Association- Type 2 Diabetes Basics
American Diabetes Association- American Diabetes Alert Day
NIH- Symptoms & Causes of Diabetes