Prevention · Screening

Diabetes screening

Who should be screened for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, which tests are used and how often. Based on USPSTF and NHS guidance.

Written by LON6EVITY Editorial Team · Last updated

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Overview

Type 2 diabetes can develop for years without symptoms. Screening aims to find raised blood sugar early, when lifestyle changes and treatment are most effective.

Who is screened

The USPSTF recommends screening adults aged 35 to 70 who are overweight or have obesity. Other risk factors, such as family history, may prompt earlier testing.

Tests used

HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose or an oral glucose tolerance test. The NHS notes type 2 diabetes is usually diagnosed from a blood test.

Frequency

The USPSTF suggests that rescreening every three years may be reasonable for adults with normal results.

Questions people commonly ask

Can I rely on symptoms instead of testing?
No. Many people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes have no symptoms.

Related biomarkers

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Sources

  1. Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes: Screening. USPSTF, 2021.
  2. Type 2 diabetes. NHS.