Are you over 40, overweight, from an ethnic minority background, or do you have a history of diabetes in your family?
These are just some of the factors that increase your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
If you are concerned that you may be at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, the Diabetes UK roadshows are offer you the opportunity to find out using the Diabetes UK Type 2 diabetes Risk Score. A risk assessor will ask you a series of questions (in a confidential room) based on the risk factors of Type 2 diabetes. You will also have your height, weight and waist circumference measured.
Your answers carry points, which are added up – your final score will determine your risk as low, increased, moderate or high. If you score a moderate or high risk you will be given a letter explaining this to take to your GP practice, and you will be advised to make an appointment for a possible blood test.
You will receive information on the risk factors of Type 2 diabetes and advice on how to reduce your risk. There will be written information to take away on healthy eating and keeping active.
If you are pregnant or under 18 years you should not have a risk assessment but should discuss this with your healthcare team. You can be assessed if it is six weeks or more since you had a baby.