Get screened for diabetes as early as possible after the age of 40

As individuals grow older, the likelihood of experiencing increased blood sugar levels rises, making it advisable for people aged 40 and above to undergo early screening for diabetes. This proactive step helps detect the disease in its nascent stages and initiate timely interventions to prevent complications.

Typical early symptoms of diabetes among people over 40 include the classic "three more and one less" signs:

1. Polyuria (excessive urination, exceeding 2500 ml daily)
2. Polydipsia (constant thirst despite consuming adequate amounts of water)
3. Polyphagia (a marked increase in appetite accompanied by unintentional weight loss)

Additionally, early-onset diabetes might present with atypical symptoms:

• Recurrent infections: Frequent occurrences of infections such as respiratory illnesses, slow-healing wounds, and skin infections, stemming from reduced blood's antibacterial capabilities due to elevated blood sugar levels.
• Blurred vision: Initially caused by rapid changes in blood sugar that affect the lens and lead to refractive errors.
• Reactive hypoglycemia: Individuals with early-stage type 2 diabetes, particularly those who are overweight, may experience pre-meal low blood sugar due to delayed insulin secretion.
• Miscellaneous symptoms: Skin itchiness, numbness in the lower extremities, erectile dysfunction in men, recurrent miscarriages in women, among others.

Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in diabetes susceptibility, and those with a family history (parents, siblings, or other close relatives) are at higher risk. Moreover, obesity, especially central obesity, and having a history of delivering a baby weighing over 4000g are also identified risk factors.

Consequently, individuals aged 40 and older who fit the following criteria should prioritize diabetes screening and promptly consult a healthcare provider:

• Those with a family history of diabetes
• Severely obese individuals, particularly those with abdominal obesity
• Women who have had macrosomic infants (weighing more than 4000g at birth)

These high-risk groups should make regular and early health checks at the hospital part of their routine to catch potential issues early. Cultivating healthy habits and maintaining a positive mindset can significantly reduce the likelihood of being troubled by diabetes and related complications later in life.