Type 2 diabetes screening

What is type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes

  • Type 2 diabetes is a common condition that causes the level of sugar (glucose) in the blood to become too high.
  • It can cause symptoms like excessive thirst, needing to pee a lot and tiredness. Many people have no symptoms.
  • It increases your risk of getting serious problems with your eyes, feet, heart and nerves.
  • It’s a long-term condition that can affect your everyday life. You may need to change your diet, take medicines and have regular check-ups.
  • It’s caused by problems with a chemical in the body (hormone) called insulin. It’s often linked to being overweight or inactive, or having a family history of type 2 diabetes.

GOING FOR REGULAR CHECK-UPS

Type 2 diabetes check-ups help you reduce the risk of other health problems related to diabetes and help spot and manage any problems early.

Every 3 to 6 month

Blood sugar checks (HbA1C test)

Checks your average blood sugar levels and how close they are to normal.

You have these checks every 3 months when newly diagnosed, then every 6 months once you’re stable.

This can be done by your GP or diabetes nurse.

At least once a year

Feet

Checks if you’ve lost any feeling in your feet, and for ulcers and infections.

This can be done by your GP, diabetes nurse or podiatrist.

Speak to your GP immediately if you have cuts, bruises or numbness in your feet.