An estimated 96 million Americans are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, and you or someone you love could be among them.
Many people don’t realize type 2 diabetes can be delayed or even prevented with healthy lifestyle changes. This means that even if you or a loved one are at risk for diabetes, there’s still time to take the steps necessary to turn your or their health around.
November is American Diabetes Month®, an opportunity to understand your risk for type 2 diabetes and encourage the people in your life to do the same by taking the one-minute Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test at diabetes.org/risktest.
Not sure what to do if you or a loved one have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes? Follow these tips from the American Diabetes Association® (ADA) to educate yourself, and help your friends and family members learn about their risk.
- Get educated: You may have an understanding of type 2 diabetes, but not everyone does. Make sure to be prepared with information about diabetes symptoms and risk factors. You can review ADA’s resources on diabetes.org or work with a health provider to gather this information.
- Be understanding: Unfortunately, type 2 diabetes has many myths and negative stigmas surrounding it. Anyone can have risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes, but even if you understand this, it can still feel discouraging.
- Take small steps: Your health doesn’t change overnight. If you or your loved one are living with multiple risk factors, it can be overwhelming to think about long-term lifestyle changes. Making long term changes over time can go a long way to improving health.
- Build a team: Depending on your Risk Test results, you may need to consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional to find out if you have diabetes. If you do, build a diabetes care team, which can include a primary care provider, diabetes care and education specialist, a mental health professional, and others. The ADA’s Center for Information can help connect you with experts in your area. You can contact them at 1-800-DIABETES or at [email protected].
Nearly half of all American adults live with diabetes or prediabetes, and chances are you or someone you love is one of them. Encourage those at high risk to make a change this month. Visit diabetes.org/WeFight to learn more and get connected with resources.