Are you at risk of
developing diabetes?
The Australia Diabetes Risk AssessmentTool (AUSDRISK) tool is a brief questionnaire designed to evaluate the risk of someone developing type 2 diabetes in the next 5 years. It can be filled out independently or with the assistance of a healthcare professional or nurse. Find out more about AUSDRISK here.
The most common risk factors include:
Restricted Diet
Ultra-processed foods, like packaged breads and buns, boxed pasta products, sweetened breakfast cereals, sugar-sweetened beverages, energy drinks, packaged chips and cookies, and others, contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance, increasing the risk of diabetes. A diet that includes more fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains is beneficial for overall health when replacing ultra-processed foods.
High Cholesterol Levels
Abnormal lipid levels, particularly high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, can increase the risk of diabetes.
Age
The risk of type 2 diabetes increases with age, especially after the age of 45. However, type 1 diabetes can occur at any age, but it is most diagnosed in children.
Family History
If you have a family history of diabetes, particularly in close relatives like parents or siblings, your risk of developing diabetes is higher. Certain genes may predispose individuals to diabetes.
Gestational Diabetes
If you developed gestational diabetes during pregnancy or had a baby weighing more than 9 pounds, you may be at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Ethnic Background
Some ethnic groups including, First Nations people, Southeast Asians, Indian subcontinent, African, and Hispanics are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Obesity
Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen, is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Fat cells can interfere with the body's ability to use insulin properly.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women, and it is often associated with insulin resistance, which can lead to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Smoking
Smoking is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The chemicals in tobacco can harm cells' ability to use insulin and increase inflammation.
Physical Inactivity
Lack of regular physical activity increases the risk of type 2 diabetes. Regular moderate-intensity exercise helps the body use insulin more effectively.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure Is often linked with diabetes, as both conditions can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications.
Stress
Chronic stress may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes by triggering unhealthy behaviours like overeating, restricted diet, and limited exercise.
It's important to note that having one or more of these risk factors doesn't guarantee that you will develop diabetes, and many people with risk factors do not develop the condition. Reducing your risk of diabetes often involves making lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, and eating a balanced diet.
Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help assess your risk and monitor your health.