The Diabetes Risk Score is an assessment tool which aims to identify individuals with impaired glucose regulation (IGR) and is designed to predict an individual’s risk of developing Type 2 diabetes within the next ten years.
It has been recommended by the 2012 NICE public health guidance, Preventing type 2 diabetes: risk identification and interventions for individuals at high risk, that GPs and other primary healthcare professionals use the tool for identifying people at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The Diabetes Risk Score was developed by University of Leicester and University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust in collaboration with Diabetes UK.
Evidence-based points system and validated
The risk assessment is evidenced-based and consists of seven questions. It uses a points system to identity if a person is at low, moderate, or high risk of developing diabetes. Based on this score, appropriate advice is provided in the form of lifestyle changes or a GP referral.
The seven questions are related to age, gender, waist circumference, BMI, ethnic background, blood pressure and family history.
The Diabetes Risk Score has been used successfully at Diabetes UK roadshows and as part of various diabetes awareness raising campaigns.
The tool is particularly useful in assessing people who:
- do not fall within the NHS Health Check age range, as anyone over the age of 18 can use it with the exception of pregnant women,
- are from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups (who are at increased risk of diabetes),
- are from socially deprived groups who are at greater diabetes risk and less likely to access local healthcare services.
Avoids false reassurance
The Diabetes Risk Score should be used in preference to the finger prick test, as it takes into consideration the risk factors for diabetes. This avoids falsely reassuring people who may have a normal blood glucose level but might still be at risk of developing the condition.
Interested in using the Diabetes Risk Score in your line of work?
In many cases Diabetes UK can provide you with all you need, free of charge.
The Diabetes Risk Score is intended for you to use free of charge if you intend to use it as
- A healthcare professional in the NHS or private healthcare
- A healthcare professional in an NHS pharmacy, independent pharmacy,or group pharmacy of 20 branches or less
- A student or lecturer in an educational institute.
Complete a Diabetes Risk Score enquiry form.
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The Diabetes Risk Score may not be free of charge if you intend to use it in
- Non-NHS workplace occupational health
- A group pharmacy of more than 20 branches
- The fitness industry
- A commercial setting
And/or
- Intend to make monetary gain.
Complete a Diabetes Risk Score Partnerships enquiry form.
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