Type 2 diabetes does not always manifest suddenly. It is often preceded by a state of prediabetes, where blood glucose levels already exceed the norm but have not yet reached the levels required for a diagnosis. At this stage, in many cases, the development of the disease can be prevented by adjusting diet, physical activity, and lifestyle, endocrinologist Polina Luchkina stated during a broadcast on Birinchi Radio.
Examination Recommendations
According to the American Diabetes Association recommendations, blood sugar testing should begin at age 35, even if there are no obvious reasons for concern. Diabetes often progresses asymptomatically, which can lead people to remain unaware of high sugar levels for years. Furthermore, readings from a standard home glucometer are insufficient for making an accurate diagnosis.
Frequency of Testing
The frequency of examinations depends on the presence of certain risk factors. If an individual has no excess weight, hereditary predisposition, or comorbid pathologies, testing can be conducted once every three years.
Blood Sugar Testing Schedule
Risk Factors
The doctor highlighted several conditions under which annual examinations are necessary:
- presence of diabetes in close relatives (e.g., parents)
- excess body weight and obesity
- cardiovascular and other comorbid diseases
- history of gestational diabetes
