Diabetes Screening

There are three forms of diabetes that exist: Gestational, Type I, and Type II. Gestational diabetes can occur in women during pregnancy, but typically resolves itself after pregnancy is over. Type I diabetes occurs when the body has difficulty producing insulin on its own, patients with Type I diabetes must take a daily dose on insulin. Type II diabetes occurs when the body’s cells are insulin-resistant and is strongly associated with obesity. Type II diabetes is the most common form of diabetes.  

Did you know…

One third of all people who have type II diabetes do not know it. Type II diabetes does not have any symptoms, so the only way to know is to conduct a blood test.

Some risk factors associated with type II diabetes are being overweight, having a high density of HDL cholesterol, and having a sedentary lifestyle.

Some ways to prevent the chronic disease is to maintain a healthy weight. This can be done, in part, by exercising regularly and eating healthy meals. Try to exercise for at least half an hour, five days a week. Stay away from foods that are high in fat as well as sugary beverages.

Starting at the age of forty-five, everyone should be screened for type II diabetes, especially those who are overweight, have high blood pressure, or have high cholesterol.