The American Diabetes Association’s Alert Day, held every fourth Tuesday in March, is a one-day wake-up call encouraging everyone to take the Diabetes Risk Test. This test helps find out if you are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

The Diabetes Risk Test is important because prediabetes has no symptoms and likely affects 1 in 3 Americans. Prediabetes means having a higher-than-normal blood glucose level, but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes.

Risk factors include obesity, physical inactivity, age, and family history. The encouraging news about a prediabetes diagnosis is that early intervention can slow or even stop the progression into type 2 diabetes.

What can you do?

1.     Knowledge is Power.  Take the free Diabetes Risk Test today!

2.     Lose a Little Weight.  Studies show losing just 7% of current body weight can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes. For example, a 200-pound person would need to lose 14 pounds.

3.     Move More! Physical activity improves glucose control, and Mass in Motion can help you find out about low-cost, fun and practical ways to move more in your local community.

4.     Eat Better.  Eating a healthy, balanced, delicious diet supports a healthy weight and provides all the nutrients required for optimum health.

For more information on diabetes visit www.diabetes.org.

For additional information on healthy eating, physical activity, and statewide initiatives to improve your health and the health of your local community visit www.mass.gov/massinmotion.

By Hannah Osborne, Dietetic Intern

Tags: #DiabetesAlertDay, active living, american diabetes association, Department of Public Health, Diabetes, DPH, exercise, health, healthy, Healthy Dining, healthy eating, healthy living, Mass in Motion, physical activity, prediabetes, Prevention, public health, Public Health Council, test