Who Should Undergo Diabetes Screening

Since more than 10% of the population over the age of 40 in our country has diabetes, everyone should undergo a diabetes screening every three years starting at age 40, regardless of their weight.

In addition, individuals with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 25 kg/m² should undergo diabetes screening starting at a younger age if they fall into one of the following risk groups.

1. Individuals with first- or second-degree relatives who have diabetes

2. Women who have given birth to a large baby or who have previously been diagnosed with gestational diabetes

3. Individuals with high blood pressure

4. Individuals with high cholesterol

5. Individuals who have previously been diagnosed with impaired glucose tolerance

6. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome

7. Individuals with cardiovascular disease

8. Individuals with low physical activity levels

9. Individuals with conditions related to insulin resistance

Patients diagnosed with diabetes should be monitored regularly for potential early- and late-stage organ damage. To plan treatment for patients with diabetes, the condition should be managed through a multidisciplinary approach—primarily involving the Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Cardiology, Ophthalmology, and Neurology clinics—and regular follow-up should be conducted.

References:

• International Diabetes Federation. (2023). IDF Diabetes Atlas (10th Edition).

• World Health Organization. (Güncel). Diabetes – Fact Sheets and Diagnosis Criteria.

• American Diabetes Association. (2024). Standards of Care in Diabetes. Diabetes Care.

• Turkish Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism. (Updated). Guidelines for the Diagnosis, Treatment, and Follow-up of Diabetes Mellitus and Its Complications.

• Turkish Diabetes Association. (Updated). Guide to the Diagnosis and Management of Diabetes.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Güncel). Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors and Screening.