Have You Checked Your Sugars Lately?

The theme for National Diabetes Awareness Month is a call to action: STAT, or screen, test, act today. The emphasis is to encourage people to get screened for diabetes, as early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in managing the condition and preventing complications.

The Diabetes Dilemma

Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body can no longer regulate blood sugar levels. There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1, usually diagnosed in childhood, and type 2, which is more common in adults and often linked to lifestyle factors. Prediabetes is a condition in which your sugars are higher than normal, but not quite high enough to be considered diabetes. People with prediabetes are at greater risk for developing type 2 diabetes, but they also have the opportunity to prevent diabetes by making lifestyle changes.

The impact of diabetes on health cannot be overstated. It can lead to complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness, and neuropathy. Early detection is crucial for effective management, but many individuals may be unaware of their diabetic status until symptoms or complications arise.

The Importance of Screening

Regular screenings are vital for catching diabetes in its early stages when treatment is most effective. If you are 35 years old or over, or if you have certain risk factors such as being overweight or obese, you should be screened. Screening for diabetes typically involves a simple blood test that measures fasting blood sugar levels, or another test called hemoglobin A1c which measures the average amount of sugar in your blood over the past 3 months. Both of these tests can be easily ordered by your Radish Health physician.

Take Action Today

If you haven’t had your blood sugar levels checked recently, now is the perfect time to reach out. Knowledge is power, and your Radish doctor is your greatest ally. Knowing your diabetic status early on can empower you to make lifestyle changes and seek appropriate medical guidance if needed.

So, have you checked your sugars lately? By taking the initiative to get screened for diabetes, you are making a personal commitment to your well-being and also contributing to a healthier, more informed society. Screen, test, act today, and let your Radish Care Team guide you through the process. Chat with your Radish doctor today to get started!