Are You At Risk Of Diabetes?

Singapore has one of the highest cases of diabetes among developed countries, second to the US. Learn the warning signs and how you can prevent it

Have you ever been in that situation where you go along for a regular check-up and your doctor looks at the scales, does the calculation for your healthy weight range, looks you in the eye and says, “You are a few kilograms over your healthy weight range.”

It is one of the more awkward conversations they need to have with their patients, say general practitioners. The fact is, most patients who are overweight know they are, and usually start the conversation themselves. But when your doctor tells you that your weight is in the unhealthy or medical-obese range, it can come as a shock.

Decades of healthy messages have cut through so most people are aware of the link between obesity and diabetes. Singapore today has the highest incidence of diabetes among developed nations, next only to the US. With the deluge of fast food options, childhood obesity and being overweight are pressing issues which may continue through to adulthood if left unchecked.

YOU ARE HIGH RISK IF YOU…

Have impaired glucose tolerance.

Have high blood pressure or have had a heart attack or stroke in the past.

Are over 40 and overweight (BMI over 30).

Had gestational diabetes.

Have polycystic ovary syndrome.

Take antipsychotic medication.

Have a close relative with Type 2 diabetes.

Weight gain can creep up on you. And one of the most common excuse for people not being able to look after their health: “Too busy”. Maybe a new job means you have less time to exercise, or you get home too late, so picking up a pizza is a convenient option. Perhaps you had a baby and those extra kilograms stayed with you. A bigger dress size becomes your “new normal”.

THE TYPES TO KNOW