So...do I Have Prediabetes?
With a little exercise and a change in diet, it often can be reversed. Let's face it, there are millions of reasons why we don't find the time to make healthy lifestyle choices. Kids, jobs, cat videos on the Internet — we're busy. But whatever your reason, prediabetes is real. So find out if you have prediabetes by taking the test now. You won't regret it. Join the National DPP You're not alone in this. There are hundreds of Diabetes Prevention Programs in local communities that are proven to help people with prediabetes make lifestyle changes to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. We're sure there's one that's right for you. "But I'm a busy mom...I don't have time to eat right and exercise!" Yes, making lifestyle changes may seem hard. But it doesn’t have to be. In fact, some of them can even be fun. Continue reading >>
Type 2 Diabetes Screening
Type 2 diabetes is a common and serious disease in the United States and worldwide. However, it’s thought that one-third of those with type 2 diabetes are unaware that they have this serious illness. Because often there are no symptoms with type 2 diabetes, early screening may help people avoid the more serious complications of this disease, including chronic hyperglycemia that’s associated with long-term damage of the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and blood vessels. Persons with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes have a significantly higher risk for stroke, coronary heart disease, and peripheral vascular disease. Individuals with diabetes also have a greater likelihood of abnormal cholesterol, high blood pressure, and obesity. Who Should Be Screened for Diabetes? According to the American Diabetes Association, all patients should be screened for diabetes at three-year intervals beginning at age 45, especially people who are overweight or obese. If multiple risk factors are present, screening should be done at an earlier age and more frequently. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults with high blood pressure or high cholesterol be screened for type 2 diabetes (insulin-resistant diabetes) in an effort to reduce cardiovascular disease. What Are the Diabetes Risk Factors? Common risk factors for diabetes include: Family history of diabetes (parents or siblings with diabetes) Overweight (a body mass index equal to or greater than 25) Habitual physical inactivity Race/ethnicity (including African-Americans, Hispanic-Americans, Native Americans, Asian-Americans, and Pacific Islanders) History of impaired fasting glucose (IFG) or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) High blood pressure (equal to or greater than 140/90 in adults) Abnormal lipids: HDL cholestero Continue reading >>
Know Your Risk Of Type 2 Diabetes
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has estimated that globally as many as 193 million people, or close to half of all adults currently living with diabetes, are unaware of their disease. Most of these cases are type 2 diabetes. IDF has created an online diabetes risk assessment which aims to predict an individual’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes within the next ten years. The test is based on the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) developed and designed by Adj. Prof Jaana Lindstrom and Prof. Jaakko Tuomilehto from the National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland. The test takes only a couple of minutes to complete. It is a quick, easy, and confidential way to find out your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. If you are a resident of one of the countries below, click on the links to access your country-specific online risk assessment. Continue reading >>
Canrisk: How A Two Minute Questionnaire Has Led To Better Health
CANRISK: How a two minute questionnaire has led to better health WATCH ABOVE: A screening program introduced by the Saskatoon Health Region is helping identify diabetes-prone individuals. Meaghan Craig has a look at the results. SASKATOON When it comes to Type 2 diabetes early detection is key. In some cases, the onset of disease can be slowed even stopped if discovered early enough and appropriate lifestyle changes are taken. No one is immune but those most at risk were targeted by Saskatoon health care providers so those diagnosed could get the help they need sooner to stay healthier longer. READ MORE: Controversial plasma collection clinic now open in Saskatoon In total, 395 people aged 20 to 39 years-old participated in one of a 12 screenings in the Saskatoon Health Region (SHR) known as the Canadian Diabetes Risk Assessment Questionnaire (CANRISK). A statistically-validated tool aimed at detecting the risk of developing diabetes or pre-diabetes in five to 10 years. Inactivity, eating habits, all of those things are contributory in addition to the genetic part, said Karen Davies, a registered dietitian with SHR. While race is a factor that is out of anyones control, its the exact reason testing was narrowed down even further in Saskatoon with questionnaires offered specifically to those of first nation descent. Diabetes is high and its increasing, in our first nations population its four to five times higher than the general population, added Lois Crossman, manager in chronic disease management at SHR. So its really imperative that we provide programs and we provide information, education, care and management for that population so we can look at reducing that risk, she said. What was once a serious concern for those over 40 is now a growing concern for those of ch Continue reading >>
Do You Have Pre-diabetes? Take This One Minute Video Test To Find Out…
It's been called a global epidemic - but most people don't realise they're on their way to diabetes until its too late. Now a one-minute test will warn people whether they are risk of pre-diabetes with a simple seven-question quiz. It's estimated that one in three adults in the UK and US have pre-diabetes - meaning they are on the verge of suffering from the full-blown illness. But because pre-diabetes does not normally cause any symptoms, millions are unaware they have it unless they undergo blood tests at the GP. Scroll down for video Those with pre-diabetes have blood sugar levels that are so high they are on the verge of type 2 diabetes. Despite not having an official diagnosis, they are at a higher risk of complications such as kidney failure, nerve damage and sight problems. Crucially, many could prevent both pre-diabetes and the full illness by making small lifestyle changes to lose weight and exercise more. The video test was put together by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in partnership with the American Medical Association and the American Diabetes Association. The government-backed advert has been launched to raise awareness of the disease and get the public to consider how their lifestyle choices can affect their risk. The quiz consists of seven simple questions about lifestyle and medical history. In it, the doctor asks viewers to count on their hands, raising one finger at a time, every time they answer a question with a 'yes.' The test questions include: Are you a man? Are you over 60? Are you inactive? Are you overweight? Does type 2 diabetes run in your family? Anyone holding up more than five fingers by the end of the test is advised to see a doctor and get checked for pre-diabetes. TAKE THE TEST BY WATCHING THE VIDEO HERE An estimated Continue reading >>
What Is Prediabetes? New Quiz Reveals Your Risk
By taking a 1-minute quiz, you can find out if you're at risk for prediabetes. The quiz is part of a new public service campaign that aims to increase awareness of the condition. The government-backed campaign also includes TV ads that let people take the quiz in real time. The goal is to give people an idea of their prediabetes risk, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which put together the campaign in partnership with the American Diabetes Association, the American Medical Association, and the Ad Council. More than 1 in 3 U.S. adults (86 million people) have prediabetes — meaning their blood sugar levels are abnormally high, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. However, just 10 percent of these people are aware that they have the condition. Prediabetes can be reversed with weight loss and changes in diet and exercise, the CDC says. But up to 30 percent of people whose prediabetes goes untreated will go on to develop type 2 diabetes within five years, and they also may be at increased risk of a heart attack or stroke, according to the CDC. "I think the scary thing is that this really touches everyone — 1 in 3 could be your brother or sister, your best friend or partner," Lisa Sherman, president and CEO of the Ad Council, said in a statement. "Our hope is that this online test and other campaign materials make it easy for people to know where they stand and will motivate them to take steps to reverse their condition." [The Best Way to Lose Weight Safely] People can take the prediabetes quiz online, or by texting "RISKTEST" to 97779. The quiz has seven questions, including the following: "Are you a man or a woman?", "Do you have a mother, father, sister or brother with diabetes?" and "How old are you?" People who are older or ma Continue reading >>
New Campaign Urges Millions To Check For Prediabetes
Are you at risk from prediabetes? Millions of Americans are and don't even know it. Prediabetes is a condition that can lead to type 2 diabetes, so stopping it is important. Now four big players in the world of health are joining forces to raise awareness and share prevention messages. They're using a little humor along the way, too. Together, the American Diabetes Association, the American Medical Association, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Ad Council have launched the first national public service advertising (PSA) campaign to raise awareness about prediabetes. "Eighty-six million people have prediabetes and only 10 percent know they have it," CDC Diabetes Translation Director Ann Albright told CBS News. That's more than one in three Americans, she added. "No one is excused from prediabetes." People with prediabetes have higher than normal blood glucose (sugar) levels, but not high enough yet to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The ad campaign walk people through a few questions so they can find out, even as they watch the videos, if they're at risk. In one of the ads, a slightly goofy doctor asks viewers to count off on their hands, raising one finger at a time, every time they answer a question with a "yes." The questions: Are you a man? Are you over 60? Are you inactive? Are you overweight? Does type 2 diabetes run in your family? And so on. If you're holding up more than five fingers by the end of the ad, you need to see a doctor and get checked for prediabetes. "People are actually taking action when they're viewing the PSA," said Albright. In other ads, the doctor talks to some typical prediabetes patients - the busy mom, the guy stuck in traffic, the slightly tubby "bacon lover" - who are surprised to hear they're not exempt. Now that Continue reading >>
Take The 2-minute Test For Type 2 Diabetes
Take the 2-minute test for Type 2 diabetes Are you at risk of having pre-diabetes or Type 2 diabetes? According to the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA), Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body cant properly processinsulin (called insulin insensitivity) or does not make enough insulin so that sugar builds up in the blood instead of being used as energy. About 90% of people with diabetes have Type 2. It is more typical in adults, but children can be affected too. The CDA has developed an online quiz for Canadians to see if they are at risk. Currently more than 9 million people in this country either have the disease or are in pre-diabetes. You can find out in just two minutes. Click here to take the test. Canada is a global leader in diabetes research. Almost 100 years ago, Frederick Banting and Charles Best discovered insulin and gave diabetics around the world the chance to live full lives. Now, Canadian stem cell researchers are working on ways to make those daily insulin injections a thing of the past via stem cell transplants. The Canadian Stem Cell Strategy & Action Plan will help make it happen. Click here to tell your federal candidates that you support the Action Plan and that they should, too. Continue reading >>
Diabetes Screening Test
If you are human, leave this field blank. Diabetes is a dangerous and life-threatening disease. Are you the 1 in 4 at major risk of developing diabetes? Early identification of your risk is the first step to prevention of diabetes and/or its complications. This simple Q and A helps assess your risk for having or developing diabetes but is not intended to replace an examination by your physician! The signs and symptoms of Type 2 diabetes can be so mild that you might not even notice them. I of every 3 people with diabetes dont even know it! When symptoms do occur the type and severity vary from person to person and include: Increased Thirst and/or Increased Urination Increased Hunger (especially after eating) Numbness or Tingling in feet, hands or legs Slow healing Sores or Frequent Infections I have an inactive lifestyle exercise less than 3 times a week I have a family history of diabetes parent or sibling Minority races in the USA have a higher incidence of diabetes. Do you identify yourself as a minority? I have hypertension or high blood pressure I have abnormal cholesterol levels Low HDL, High LDL or triglycerides I have a history of cardiovascular disease I have had diabetes during pregnancy or had a baby that weighed more than 9 pounds at birth I have a history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) women only I have areas of darkened skin (Acanthosis Nigricans) dark velvety patches around neck or armpits On previous testing, I had prediabetes, impaired fasting glucose (IFG), or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Continue reading >>
Your Risk Of Type 2 Diabetes
Finding out only takes a few minutes. It could be the most important thing you do today. Before you start, grab a tape measure and scales... You must be 18 or over to complete this tool. Please note: the results will not be accurate if you are pregnant. Continue reading >>
Diabetes Risk Test
Could you have diabetes and not know it? One in every three adults is prediabetic and hasn't been diagnosed. Take this test to see if you are at risk for diabetes. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about managing your diabetes. Continue reading >>
Why Take 2 Minutes?
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is an indicator of body fat based on height and weight. Most adults with a high BMI have a high percentage of body fat and extra body fat is associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes. Indicate your height (in feet and inches) and weight in lbs. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing diabetes. The more overweight you are, the higher your risk. Your body mass index is According to the World Health Organization (WHO), BMI scores of: Below 18.5 = Underweight 18.5–24.9 = Normal 25.0–29.9 = Overweight/Pre-obese 30.0 and over = Obese To help you calculate this, use a tape measure; place it around your waist at the level of your belly button. Breathe out. Do not hold your breath, then measure. You can also enter the information by typing it in the box. Do you usually do some physical activity such as brisk walking for at least 30 minutes each day? (This activity can be done while at work or at home) * Increasing physical activity is a key element in controlling weight and reducing the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Brisk walking is a great way to become more active, and every step counts. Aim for an average of 30 minutes per day, or 150 minutes per week. Consult your family doctor or health professional before increasing your physical activity level. By eating foods that are rich in fibre, reducing the amount of fat and salt in food selections and adding more fruits and vegetables, you can help control your diet and maintain or lose weight. Canada's Food Guide recommends 7 to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables each day, depending on your age and sex. Watch your total calories as well as the amount of fat, fibre and salt (sodium). Have you ever been found to have high blood sugar? * A previous test re Continue reading >>
Are You At Risk? (type 2)
While there is no single cause of type 2 diabetes, there are well-established risk factors. Some risk factors can be controlled and others you are born with. An estimated 2 million Australians are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes and there are also large numbers of people with silent, undiagnosed type 2 diabetes which may be damaging their bodies. Diabetes Australia has developed a Risk Calculator based on the Australian type 2 diabetes risk test (AUSDRISK). It is a simple and easy way to assess your risk or developing type 2 diabetes. Click on the link below 'What's my risk' and answer the 11 short questions: What’s my risk? Click on the link below to access the Australian Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment Tool (AUSDRISK) Continue reading >>
A Diabetes Test You Can Do Yourself
Are you urinating more often, feeling very thirsty, hungry, or tired? Maybe you’re losing weight. You may have type 2 diabetes. To find out, you can make an appointment with your doctor and have your blood tested for the condition. Or you can go to the drug store, buy a blood glucose meter, and give yourself a diabetes test. An estimated 40 percent of adults with type 2 diabetes don’t know they have it, which means they aren’t getting treatment that could protect them from very serious health problems down the road, such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, and kidney failure. The best option is to go to a doctor if you’re having symptoms of diabetes. But if you’re reluctant to do that, for whatever reason, the next best thing is to buy an over-the-counter diabetes test kit. "If you have a family history of diabetes, are obese, or have high blood pressure, you should test yourself for diabetes, if your doctor hasn’t already done so," says Marvin M. Lipman, M.D., Consumer Reports' chief medical adviser. "By being a proactive person, you might save yourself a lot of grief in the future.” Blood glucose meters can be purchased without a prescription. Models in our Ratings of more than two dozen devices cost $10 to $75. They usually come with 10 lancets, but you might have to buy a pack of test strips separately, which can cost $18 and up; check the package to see what it includes. If the meter doesn’t come with strips, make sure you buy a pack made for that model or you’ll get inaccurate results. Most models come with batteries. Here’s what you need to do next: Fast overnight. Don’t have anything to eat or drink (except water) for at least 8 hours, then test yourself first thing in the morning, before breakfast. Follow directions. Read the manual to ma Continue reading >>
The Five-finger Test You Can Use To Diagnose Your Diabetes Risk In Under A Minute
Diabetes affects almost one out of every 10 Americans. In 2012, more than 29 million Americans had diabetes. Of that approximate 29 million, only 21 million were diagnosed, with the remaining left undiagnosed. Approximately $245 billion is spent on diagnosing diabetes every year. Although these numbers may be shocking to you, even more Americans are effected by prediabetes, a condition that, in 2012, approximately 86 million Americans were affected by. The way most people get their prediabetes diagnosed is through a blood test, however there is an alternative way to diagnose prediabetes that I will reveal to you later on. First, lets discuss what prediabetes actually is. What Is Prediabetes? When someone is diagnosed with prediabetes it means that they have blood sugar levels that are higher than normal, but not yet at a diabetic level. The name “prediabetes” comes from the fact that many people who have prediabetes are on their way to becoming diabetic and, although not everyone with prediabetes develops type 2 diabetes, many prediabetics will. Although having prediabetes does not necessarily make you diabetic, long-term prediabetes has been associated with many of the same health issues that diabetics face, including heart disease and nerve damage. However, prediabetes symptoms and even type 2 diabetes symptoms are sometimes not present, so it is important to use other indicative markers to tell if you are at risk (but we will talk more about that later). Symptoms Although I previously mentioned that symptoms for type 2 diabetes and prediabetes may not occur, it is still important to keep and eye out for them, because if they do this can signal that you are becoming increasingly diabetic. Symptoms of diabetes include: Increased urination Increased thirst Unexplain Continue reading >>
