Doctors Recommend Diabetes Screening Before Age 30 For High-Risk Young Adults

Type 2 diabetes is affecting more young adults today, leading experts to advise early health checks before the age of 30.

Screening Tests

Dr Gurusangappa S Mudagall from Manipal Hospital Electronics City recommends specific tests for people under 30. These include blood glucose checks using fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c tests. Doctors also track body mass index and waist size, noting that Indians face health risks at lower body mass index levels. A body mass index of 23 or higher, along with a waist size of 90 cm for men or 80 cm for women, needs attention.

Risk Factors

Young adults should test early if they have a family history of diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, past gestational diabetes, or a lack of physical activity. Excess belly fat, being overweight, and signs of insulin resistance like dark skin patches also call for screening. High blood pressure, high triglycerides, and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol point to heart and metabolic risks.

Prevention

Dr Mudagall notes that prediabetes does not always turn into full diabetes. People can lower their risk through regular exercise, good sleep, healthy food, and weight control. Catching issues early helps stop or delay health problems before symptoms appear.

Context

Routine health checks help catch lifestyle diseases early, giving people a chance to change their habits before serious illness sets in. Doctors often advise preventive testing when family history or body measurements point to hidden health risks.