National Diabetes Week: Know Your Risk, Know the Signs, Get Checked
National Diabetes Week is a timely reminder to check in on your health, especially if diabetes runs in your family. Type 2 diabetes can develop slowly, and some people may not notice symptoms at first. That is why early testing and regular health checks are so important.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition where blood glucose, also known as blood sugar, becomes too high. Glucose is an important source of energy for the body, but it needs insulin to move from the blood into the cells.
In type 2 diabetes, the body either does not use insulin properly or does not make enough insulin. Over time, high blood glucose levels can affect the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves and feet.
Who may be at higher risk?
You may benefit from speaking to your GP about diabetes testing if you:
Have a family history of diabetes
Are aged 40 or over
Are above a healthy weight range
Have high blood pressure or high cholesterol
Have had gestational diabetes
Have polycystic ovarian syndrome
Are physically inactive
Are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
Having one or more risk factors does not mean you definitely have diabetes. It simply means it may be worth checking your risk with your GP.
Signs and symptoms to look out for
Diabetes symptoms can be mild or easy to miss. Some people may not have symptoms at all.
Common signs can include:
Feeling very thirsty
Passing urine more often than usual
Feeling tired or low in energy
Blurred vision
Feeling hungrier than usual
Slow-healing cuts or wounds
Frequent infections
Tingling, numbness or pain in the feet
If you notice these symptoms, it is a good idea to book an appointment with your GP.
What tests can check for diabetes?
Diabetes is usually checked with a blood test. Your GP may recommend a test such as:
Fasting blood glucose test
HbA1c test
Oral glucose tolerance test
These tests help show whether your blood glucose levels are within a healthy range, or whether you may have prediabetes or diabetes.
What can you do to lower your risk?
Small, consistent lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
You can support your health by:
Eating a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, wholegrains and lean protein
Being physically active
Maintaining a healthy weight range
Reducing sugary drinks and highly processed foods
Managing blood pressure and cholesterol
Attending regular health checks with your GP
Your GP can help you understand your personal risk and recommend the right next steps.
Already living with diabetes?
If you already have diabetes, regular health checks are important for preventing complications. This may include checking your blood glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol, kidneys, eyes and feet.
Foot health is especially important. Diabetes can affect circulation and nerve sensation in the feet, which means cuts, blisters or pressure areas may go unnoticed. A regular foot check with a GP or our on-site podiatrist, Franco, who can help detect problems early and reduce the risk of complications.
When should you see a GP?
You should consider booking an appointment if you have symptoms of diabetes, have a family history of diabetes, or are unsure about your risk.
A simple blood test can be an important first step.
This National Diabetes Week, take a moment to check in on your health. Early testing, regular check-ups and the right support can make a real difference.
For more information check out Health Direct’s page on Diabetes screening tests.
Book your appointment today
Booking is quick and easy:
👉 Book Online: www.botanyroaddoctors.com.au
👉 Call Us: (02) 9066 0111
