You have a higher risk for diabetes if you have any of the following:

• Age greater than 45 years
• Diabetes during a previous pregnancy
• Excess body weight (especially around the waist)
• Family history of diabetes
• Given birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds
• HDL cholesterol under 35
• High blood levels of triglycerides, a type of fat molecule (250 mg/dL or more)
• High blood pressure (greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg)
• Impaired glucose tolerance
• Low activity level
• Poor diet

Persons from certian ethnic groups, including African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Native Americans, all have high rates of diabetes

Everyone over 45 should have their blood glucose checked at least every 3 years. Regular testing of random blood glucose should begin at a younger age, and be performed more often if you are at higher risk for diabetes.

See: Diabetes

American Diabetes Association. Screening for type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care. 2004; 27(Suppl.1):S11-S14.