Undiagnosed diabetes: warning signs and why screening matters
Latest news on WhatsApp أجدد الأخبار على واتسابDespite advances in medical care and wider screening programs, many people still live with diabetes without knowing it, allowing the condition to progress quietly and increasing the risk of complications.
In the United States, official data estimate that millions of adults have diabetes that remains undiagnosed, prompting health experts to stress the importance of recognizing early symptoms and getting regular screening, particularly for type 2 diabetes, which can develop gradually with few noticeable signs at first.
Diabetes affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. Major types include type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes. Undiagnosed or uncontrolled diabetes can damage the heart, kidneys, nerves, eyes and blood vessels over time, and in severe cases can lead to medical emergencies that require urgent care.
Guidance on screening varies by country and risk factors. In the U.S., recent guidance referenced by public health officials notes screening can start at age 35 and be repeated every three years if results are normal. In Canada, clinical guidance commonly recommends screening every three years from age 40, or earlier for people at higher risk.
Common symptoms that may signal diabetes, especially if persistent or occurring together, include
-frequent urination
- excessive thirst
- increased hunger
- unexplained fatigue
- unexplained weight loss
- blurred vision
- numbness or tingling in hands or feet
Health experts advise not ignoring symptoms and discussing testing options with a clinician, including fasting plasma glucose, A1C and an oral glucose tolerance test
