Diabetes Risk Calculator

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) developed a simple screening questionnaire to help people identify whether they may be at increased risk for type 2 diabetes. It evaluates factors like age, BMI, family history, ethnicity, physical activity, and blood pressure to generate a risk score.

A1C (glycated hemoglobin) reflects your average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. An A1C below 5.7% is normal, 5.7-6.4% indicates prediabetes, and 6.5% or higher suggests diabetes. It is one of the primary tests used to diagnose and monitor diabetes.

Research shows that lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 58%. Key strategies include losing 5-7% of body weight if overweight, getting at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, eating a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and managing blood pressure and cholesterol.

Certain ethnic groups have a genetically higher predisposition to type 2 diabetes. African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, Asian Americans, Native Americans, and Pacific Islanders all have statistically higher rates of type 2 diabetes compared to non-Hispanic whites, even when controlling for lifestyle factors.

The ADA recommends screening for all adults starting at age 45, with repeat testing every 3 years if results are normal. If you have risk factors such as obesity, family history, or physical inactivity, screening should begin earlier and may be done more frequently.

This calculator provides an estimate of your risk based on known risk factors. It is not a diagnosis. A definitive diabetes diagnosis requires laboratory blood tests such as fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), or A1C. Use this tool as a starting point to decide whether to talk to your doctor about testing.