Type 2 Diabetes: Are you at risk?

Most of us know someone living with Type 2 Diabetes whether it be a friend or relative, it is after all the most common form of diabetes. But what you may not know is that 58% of Type 2 Diabetes cases are preventable.

How does it work?

When the pancreas is not producing enough insulin or the body does not respond to insulin effectively or does not produce enough insulin. This then results in abnormally high levels of blood sugar as the body’s cells are unable to absorb glucose (sugar).

Am I at risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes?

If you are overweight, over 45years old, have high blood pressure or high cholesterol, physically inactive or consume a poor diet then you are at a higher risk or developing Type 2 Diabetes.

My family member has T2D, does this mean I will develop it too?

It is true there is a strong genetic component to developing Type 2 Diabetes, however the risk is significantly reduced by making healthier lifestyle choices. Weight loss, increasing physical activity, improving your diet, quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake are the best ways to lower your risk.

How do I know if I have T2D?

Half a million Australians are living with type 2 Diabetes and do not realise. People can live with diabetes for 7years before being diagnosed as they may not show physical symptoms. Therefore, it is so important to be checked by your doctor if you are at a high risk of diabetes.

Once diagnosed, you can manage your diabetes though lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes and increased physical activity which can reduce consumption of medication and improve your long term prognosis.

How can an Accredited Exercise Physiologist help me?

Exercise Physiologists have experience working with chronic diseases such as T2D and prescribing appropriate exercise for the condition. Medicare rebates are also available to those diagnosed with T2D and eligible for free group exercise classes each year.

The My Health for Life program is a free program designed by Diabetes Australia for those at risk of developing type 2 Diabetes, these are being run currently online via local providers. See www.myhealthforlife.com.au, or call Activate Health.

Maddison Iskov, Accredited Exercise Physiologist