Type 2 diabetes, or high blood sugar, typically sets in after age 45, a time when extra pounds are becoming a problem. You're in greater danger if you're overweight or have high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
You need to watch for it because it's a major cause of blindness, kidney disease, stroke and heart disease.
The test to get:
If you have any of the risk factors, your doctor will likely recommend the fasting blood sugar test (you must abstain from eating for six hours before your blood is drawn).
This early testing can pick up pre-diabetes, a symptomless condition that precedes Type 2 diabetes. Even with higher than normal blood glucose levels, you may be able to prevent Type 2 diabetes with treatment, diet and exercise. The cost: $40
Know your blood sugar
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