Diabetes is growing rapidly in the United States, with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reporting that 30 million Americans, or around 9.4 percent of the country’s population, has diabetes, while a further 84 million have prediabetes, a condition that may lead to full-blown diabetes within five years without proper treatment. Diabetes is often not diagnosed until a person experiences complications. According to the American Diabetes Association, a third of all people who have diabetes may be undiagnosed, which is why diabetes screening is so important.
Who Should Be Tested For Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 Diabetes testing is recommended for all adults aged 45 and above, along with people younger than 45 who have risk factors for diabetes.
Major Risk Factors For Diabetes
- A family history of diabetes
- Being overweight
- Having hypertension
- A history of gestational diabetes
- Having polycystic ovary syndrome
- Being physically inactive
How Often Should You Be Tested For Type 2 Diabetes?
It is recommended that adults get glucose screening tests for diabetes every three years starting at age 45. Those who have been diagnosed with prediabetes require annual screening.
However, you should discuss your health and risk factors with your doctor to determine if you need to be screened more frequently.
What Does Diabetes Testing Entail?
There are several tests that can be used to diagnose diabetes.
Fasting Plasma Glucose Test (FPG)
This is the most common diabetes screening test. It measures your blood glucose at a single point in time. We advise getting this test done in the morning after fasting for at least 8 hours, which means having no food or drinks except for small sips of water as needed.
A1C Test
This blood test measures your average blood glucose levels over the last three months. This test can be diagnostic, and it can also be used to help diabetics manage their disease.
Random Plasma Glucose Test (RPG)
This test may be given at any time regardless of fasting status and is used when healthcare professionals need to diagnose diabetes quickly due to the presence of symptoms.
Diabetes Care
At Imperial Center Family Medicine, our primary care physicians offer a comprehensive range of diabetes care and education services to adults and children aged 6 and up.
We can help people with diabetes learn important skills for managing the disease, including
- Using glucose meters
- Insulin management
- Meal planning
- Advice on eye and dental health
- Foot care
- Managing complications
Reducing Your Risk Of Diabetes
Whether you have been diagnosed with prediabetes, meet any of the high-risk criteria, or simply want to reduce your risk, here are some steps you can take.
Lose Weight
Reducing your body weight by just 10 to 15 pounds may be enough to reduce your risk of diabetes.
Get Exercise
Physical activity reduces your risk of diabetes, so aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate or vigorous activity at least five times per week.
Eat A Healthy Diet
Include more whole grains, vegetables and lean meats in your diet while limiting foods with added sugar and fat and consuming reasonable portions.
Schedule Your Diabetes Screening in Durham, NC
Call Imperial Center Family Medicine at 1-(919) 873-4437 to learn more about our diabetes screening and care services and schedule testing. We are a friendly and welcoming team of doctors and staff who is ready to help you manage your diabetes so you can live a normal life.