What is diabetes?
In a healthy body, carbohydrates in food are broken down into glucose (sugar). This glucose is then absorbed into the blood to become energy for daily activities. The body also makes a hormone called insulin to help carry glucose into the cells to be turned into energy for daily body functions.
When a person has diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin, or the body cannot use the insulin it produces. This leads to high levels of glucose in the blood and can result in long-term health problems.
Screening for type 2 diabetes
If you are aged 40 and over, you should get checked by your health care provider for diabetes regularly. Ask your health care provider to check your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
As a starting point, use the CANRISK Diabetes Questionnaire (Health Canada) to determine your risk for developing type 2 diabetes, and start a conversation about your risk with your health care provider.
Reducing your risk of developing type 2 diabetes
Taking steps toward a healthy lifestyle, including eating well, being active, sleeping well, and living tobacco-free can lower your chance of developing type 2 diabetes (Diabetes Canada) or diabetes complications (Diabetes Canada).
Have you been diagnosed with diabetes?
You can visit the Diabetes Care Service at Health Sciences North in Greater Sudbury for education and support designed for children, youth, and adults. You may also find additional information on diabetes education programs at Ontario Health811.