DIABETES... CARE... PREVENTION... MANGEMENT

EVERYONE IS AT RISK FOR DIABETES

No one really knows what causes type 1 diabetes. As far as we know there is no single cause of type 2 diabetes, but some factors put people at a greater risk.

TYPE 1 RISK FACTORS

• having a parent, brother or sister with diabetes, and
• exposure to some viruses, such as Coxsackie B virus

TYPE 2 RISK FACTORS

If you are age 40 or over, you are at risk for type 2 diabetes and should be tested at least every three years. If you check any of the following boxes, you should be tested for diabetes earlier and/or more often:

• I have a parent, brother or sister with diabetes.
• I am a member of a high-risk group (Aboriginal, Hispanic, Asian, South Asian or African descent.
• I have health complications that are associated with diabetes: Heart disease Kidney disease/ Eye disease/ Problems with erection (impotence)/ Nerve damage.
• I gave birth to a baby that weighed over 4 kg (9 lbs) at birth.
• I had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy).
• I have been told I have impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) or impaired fasting glucose (IFG).
• I have high blood pressure.
• I have high cholesterol or other fats in my blood.
• I am overweight (especially if you carry most of your weight around your middle).

I have been diagnosed with any of the following conditions:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Acanthosis nigricans (darkened patches of skin)
• Schizophrenia

Don’t ignore these risk factors. The earlier you are diagnosed, the sooner you can take action to stay well – now and in the future!

If you already have diabetes, your children, brothers and sisters are at risk. Urge them to be tested for diabetes.

Source: Canadian Diabetes Association 11/03

Recognize these signs?

Signs and symptoms of diabetes may include:

• unusual thirst
• frequent urination
• weight change
• extreme fatigue or lack of energy
• blurred vision
• frequent or recurring infections
• cuts and bruises that are slow to heal
• tingling or numbness in hands or feet
• trouble getting and maintaining an erection

In type 1 diabetes, the symptoms progress quickly.

In type 2 diabetes, since symptoms are slower to progress, it is possible to have no apparent symptoms.