Type 2 Diabetes is a risk factor for people over 40 years of age, but can occur in children, adolescents, and young adults.
Some Risk Factors for Diabetes:
Age
You are at increased risk for diabetes if you are older than 40 years of age. Although more and more kids and adolescents are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
Weight
A BMI above 25 is considered overweight which increases risk for diabetes. For Asian Americans, 23 or above is considered overweight.
Family history
If a close relative (grandparent, parent, or sibling) has diabetes, it is important to get a regular check
on your A1c, blood work on your average blood sugars in the past 3 months.
History of gestational diabetes
Having gestational diabetes (GDM) is diabetes during pregnancy.
Race/Ethnicity
African American, Asian American, American Indian, Hispanic/Latino, or Pacific Islander
Having prediabetes
Blood sugar is higher than normal but is not in the diabetes range. An A1c test can confirm if you have prediabetes.
If you are at risk of having diabetes, regular blood sugar tests are important as you may not notice or have any symptoms.