Three-step test could spot diabetes risk - when to call your GP

Diabetes UK has an easy online test to check your risk of type 2 diabetes, offering insights into the likelihood of developing the condition over the next decade. The tool also provides guidance on appropriate actions, from maintaining your current health regimen to immediately contacting your GP for further investigation.

The charity warned: "You can have type 2 diabetes for years without knowing. More than 3.2 million people in the UK are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes based on blood sugar levels."

To take the test, you must be over 18 and not pregnant to ensure the test's precision, with essential data including waist size, height, and weight needed for the assessment. The seven-question survey also factors in age, ethnicity, and family history, taking mere minutes to do online.

The test categorises people's risk into four distinct groups: low, medium, high, or very high. According to the findings, people deemed 'very high risk' have a one in four likelihood of being diagnosed with type two diabetes in the ensuing 10 years.

While those in the 'high risk' category face a one in 10 chance, the 'medium risk' cohort have a one in 35 probability, and for those classified as 'low risk', the odds stand at one in 100.

People in the very high risk category will be encouraged to get a blood test for diabetes from their GP and enquire about additional support services to help reduce their risk. The charity can also send your results and advice by email, which can include a letter to show to your GP.

The test identifies factors beyond your control, such as ethnicity, age, and height, but it also emphasises the ideal waist and BMI measurements to lower the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.

A waist size over 110cm scores nine points in the assessment, automatically placing you in the medium risk category, even without considering other elements. In contrast, a waist size under 90cm won't add any points to your score.

Likewise, a BMI of 35 or higher tallies eight points, enough to categorise you as medium risk, whereas a BMI below 25 garners no points.

The charity also highlighted that unlike type one diabetes, type two is often preventable, with studies showing that lifestyle changes can halve the risk. Effective measures include a balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining weight loss if necessary.

Experts advise: "It's important to keep checking your risk regularly, especially if anything changes, like if you've put on weight or feel unwell."

It's also advised to be vigilant for symptoms of diabetes, especially if you're at an elevated risk due to factors such as age, ethnicity or family history. These symptoms include:

• An unexpected increase in urination
• Excessive thirst
• Feeling unusually fatigued
• Unintentional weight loss
• Genital thrush
• Delayed healing of cuts and wounds
• Blurred vision
• Increased appetite