Risk Factors

There are three types of diabetes:

• Type 1 diabetes: Usually diagnosed in children and young adults.
• Type 2 diabetes: The most common form and the most often diagnosed form in adults.
• Gestational diabetes: Can appear during pregnancy and can create a high risk for type 2 diabetes later in life.

The cause of diabetes is unknown, but risk factors for type 2 diabetes have been identified: they include obesity, family history of diabetes, increasing age, a poor diet high in processed foods, and lack of regular exercise.

Know the symptoms of diabetes and discuss any you are experiencing with your doctor:

• Frequent urination
• Blurred vision
• Excessive thirst
• Slow healing sores or frequent infections
• Extreme hunger
• Tingling sensation in the hands and/or feet
• Unexplained weight loss
• Red, swollen, sensitive gums
• Increased fatigue

The chart below explains some of the typical, primary tests for type 1 and 2 diabetes, prediabetes and gestational diabetes. Only your doctor can determine which test or tests are appropriate for you, based on your symptoms, risk factors and other important personal information.