Diabetes Risk Factors

Diabetes is a growing concern in North Carolina, the nation and the world. There are both modifiable and inherent risks for developing type 2 diabetes. To find out if you are at risk, take the Diabetes Risk Assessment.

• Are over the age of 45. According to the National Institute of Health everyone over 45 should have a blood sugar (glucose) test at least every 3 years.
• Have prediabetes. If your blood sugar already runs a little high but not high enough to be labeled diabetes, you may have prediabetes. You may be able to prevent diabetes through lifestyle changes. Find out how to prevent diabetes.
• Have a family history of diabetes. If your mother, father, sister or brother has diabetes, you are at increased risk.
• Are overweight. People who carry their extra weight around the waist are at a higher risk than people who carry extra weight around the hips.
• Gave birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds, then you are at increased risk.
• Had gestational diabetes. If you had diabetes during one or more of your pregnancies, then you are at increased risk.
• If your mother had gestational diabetes,you are at increased risk.
• Are a minority. People who are of African, Asian, Native American and Latino descent are at increased risk.