Diabetes
Diabetes Mellitus refers to an abnormally elevated blood sugar level. It is amongst the most worrisome of chronic diseases as it can affect and damage nearly all organ systems. Although no standard guideline exists, the American Diabetes Association recommends screening at age 45 with blood tests and questionnaires; and repeat testing at 3-year intervals. Although screening for diabetes is not recommended for everyone, it should be strongly considered if you are in a high-risk group. You are considered to be at high risk if you have a strong family history of diabetes, previous diabetes during pregnancy, obesity, African American, Hispanic, or Native American ethnicity, age greater than 45, or if you have hypertension. Some of the common symptoms which diabetic patients experience are thirstiness, frequent urination, increased appetite, blurred vision, and a significant weight loss/gain. A simple blood test is advised if you are in any of the above groups.