Wake Up and Take Action

As obesity rises, so do the rates of related conditions. Type 2 diabetes is a risk for anyone carrying extra pounds:

Weight. Maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent it.

Sedentary lifestyle. Regular physical activity can ward off many conditions, including diabetes.

Age. If you’re over 45 you’re at greater risk. Ask your doctor how often you should be screened.

Race. African Americans, Native Americans, and Latinos have a higher risk of developing it.

Family history. If anyone in your family has diabetes, be sure to have your blood sugar tested.

Knowing your risk and visiting your doctor for proper screening are the first steps to a diabetes-free life. And while you can’t control factors such as age, race, and family history, you can be physically active, eat well, and maintain a healthy weight.