Could You Have Diabetes and Not Know It? Take This Quick Risk Test
March 2, 2021 by admin
Filed under Articles, Fruits And Vegetables, Health Care Provider
Many people live with **prediabetes** or **type 2 diabetes** for years without obvious symptoms. This short quiz can help you estimate your risk and decide whether you should talk to a healthcare provider about getting tested.
> **Important:** This is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. Only a medical professional can confirm diabetes with a blood test.
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## Diabetes Risk Quiz: Add Up Your Points
**Instructions:**
Read each statement. If it’s true for you, write the points next to it. If it’s not true, write **0**. Then add your total score.
1. **I am a woman and I have given birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds (about 4 kg).**
Yes = **1** _____
2. **I have a brother or sister with diabetes.**
Yes = **1** _____
3. **I have a mother or father with diabetes.**
Yes = **1** _____
4. **My weight is at or above the “overweight” range for my height (or I carry extra weight around my waist).**
Yes = **5** _____
5. **I am under 65 and I get little or no regular physical activity.**
Yes = **5** _____
6. **I am between 45 and 64 years old.**
Yes = **5** _____
7. **I am 65 years old or older.**
Yes = **9** _____
### Total Score: ______
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## What Your Score Means
### **10 points or more**
You may be at **high risk** for diabetes. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider to ask for diabetes screening (often an **A1C** or **fasting blood glucose** test).
### **3 to 9 points**
You’re likely at **lower risk right now**, but don’t ignore prevention. Keep your risk low by:
* staying active most days
* maintaining a healthy weight (if needed)
* eating more fiber-rich foods (vegetables, beans, lentils, whole grains)
* limiting sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods
### **0 to 2 points**
Your current risk appears **low**, but risk can change over time. Retest yearly—especially if your lifestyle, weight, or health history changes.
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## Why This Matters
Diabetes is serious because it can raise the risk of complications over time, including **heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, nerve damage, eye disease, and foot complications**. The earlier you catch it, the more options you have to protect your health.