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Diabetes Risk Assessments

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Primary Care in Astoria

Identify Your Risk & Take Control with mediDental care in Astoria

Diabetes affects millions of Americans—and many people don’t know they’re at risk. At mediDental care, we offer comprehensive diabetes risk assessments as part of our commitment to preventive care and personalized care. As your trusted source for primary care in Astoria, we help you understand your risk factors, screen for early warning signs, and guide you toward lifestyle changes that can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.

Whether you have a family history of diabetes or simply want to take charge of your health, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

What Is a Diabetes Risk Assessment?

A diabetes risk assessment evaluates your likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. It includes a review of personal and family history, lifestyle factors, and key health metrics to determine whether you’re at low, moderate, or high risk.

What We Assess:

  • Weight and body mass index (BMI)
  • Blood pressure
  • Fasting blood sugar or A1C level
  • Cholesterol and triglycerides
  • Family history of diabetes
  • Diet, exercise, and stress levels
  • Ethnicity and age-related risk factors

This evaluation helps us intervene early—before diabetes develops or complications arise.

Types of Diabetes Risk Tests

There are several types of diabetes risk tests that primary care providers use to help you understand your likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. These tests go beyond a single blood draw—they combine information from your medical history, physical measurements, and lab results to give a complete picture of your risk. Common diabetes risk tests include questionnaires that assess your age, weight, family history, and lifestyle habits, as well as blood tests like fasting glucose, oral glucose tolerance, and A1C. Some assessments also use cholesterol and triglyceride levels to evaluate your risk for related illnesses, such as heart disease, which can contribute to diabetes.

By using a combination of these tests, your provider can accurately identify your risk level and recommend the best steps to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. Early detection through these risk tests is key to taking control of your health and making informed decisions about your wellness.

Why Early Detection Matters

More than 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. have prediabetes, and most don’t know it. If caught early, diabetes can often be delayed—or even prevented—through lifestyle changes and proactive care.

Benefits of Diabetes Risk Screening:

  • Identify prediabetes or undiagnosed diabetes
  • Reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke
  • Prevent diabetic complications like nerve damage and kidney disease
  • Empower you to take action with diet, exercise, and treatment
  • Establish a personalized care plan with your provider

Who Should Get a Diabetes Risk Assessment?

Everyone should know their risk—especially if you have any of the following risk factors:

Common Risk Factors that Contribute:

  • Overweight or obesity (BMI 25+)
  • Age 45 or older
  • Family history of type 2 diabetes
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • History of gestational diabetes (for women)
  • High blood pressure or cholesterol
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • African American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, or Asian American heritage

We recommend screenings every 1–3 years depending on your results and risk level.

Step-by-Step Diabetes Risk Assessment at mediDental care

1. Personal and Family History Review

Understanding your personal and family history is a vital first step in evaluating your risk for type 2 diabetes. During your assessment at mediDental care, we’ll discuss any relatives who have had diabetes, as well as your own health background, including previous illnesses or conditions that could contribute to your risk. This information helps us identify patterns and risk factors unique to you, so we can tailor your prevention plan.

To make the most of your visit, consider gathering details about your family’s health history ahead of time. You can use online tools or health apps to organize this information, and even mail or email your records to our office before your appointment. By taking these proactive steps, you contribute to a more accurate risk assessment and empower yourself to make informed decisions about your health.

2. Physical Exam and Measurements

A comprehensive physical exam is an essential part of assessing your risk for type 2 diabetes. At mediDental care, we’ll measure your weight, height, and calculate your body mass index (BMI) to determine if you’re within a healthy range. We’ll also check your blood pressure and look for any physical signs of illness that might contribute to your diabetes risk.

Open communication is key—be sure to share any symptoms or concerns you have, as this helps us get a complete picture of your health. By using the results from your physical exam and measurements, we can work together to create a personalized plan to manage your risk and support your long-term wellness. Remember, early detection and honest dialogue are powerful tools in preventing type 2 diabetes.

3. Blood Testing

Blood testing provides crucial insights into your risk for type 2 diabetes. Blood tests are a key screening tool used in diabetes risk assessments. At mediDental care, we use a range of tests—such as fasting plasma glucose, oral glucose tolerance, and hemoglobin A1c—to measure your blood sugar levels and identify any factors that may contribute to your risk. These results help us determine whether you have prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, or are at increased risk.

Once your results are available, we’ll review them with you in detail and discuss what they mean for your health. You can use this information to make informed choices about your lifestyle and treatment options. To stay up-to-date on the latest diabetes research and tips for managing your risk, consider signing up for email newsletters from trusted health organizations. Staying informed and engaged is a key part of taking control of your diabetes risk.

4. Risk Scoring and Explanation

After your diabetes risk assessment, you’ll receive a risk score that reflects your likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. This score is calculated using national guidelines and takes into account factors like your age, weight, family history, and activity level. A higher score means a greater risk, but it also gives you a clear starting point for making positive changes.

Understanding your risk score empowers you to take action—whether that means adjusting your diet, increasing your physical activity, or working with your provider to monitor your health more closely. Use your risk score as a motivator to contribute to your overall wellness and reduce your chances of developing this illness. Remember, knowing your risk is the first step toward prevention, and every healthy choice you make can help lower your risk of type 2 diabetes.

5. Prevention and Management Plan

If your assessment shows you’re at risk for type 2 diabetes, developing a prevention and management plan is essential. This plan is tailored to your unique needs and may include strategies for maintaining a healthy weight, increasing physical activity, and making nutritious food choices. Your primary care provider will work with you to set realistic goals and track your progress, often using email or mail reminders to help you stay on track.

Taking a proactive approach to diabetes prevention can significantly reduce your risk of developing this type of illness. While you can’t change certain risk factors, like your family history, you can still contribute to your health by focusing on what you can control. Regular check-ins and ongoing support from your care team make it easier to stick with your plan and achieve lasting results.

The Role of Primary Care Physicians in Diabetes Prevention

Primary care physicians are your partners in diabetes prevention. As the first point of contact for most health concerns, they play a crucial role in helping you assess your risk for type 2 diabetes and develop a personalized plan to reduce that risk. Your provider will guide you through risk assessments, explain your results, and work with you to create a prevention strategy that fits your lifestyle.

By offering advice on healthy eating, physical activity, and stress management, primary care physicians help you make choices that contribute to your overall wellness. They also provide ongoing support through regular check-ups and convenient communication—whether by email, mail, or in-person visits—to keep you motivated and informed. Regular use of diabetes risk tests and prevention plans allows your provider to identify high-risk individuals early and offer the resources needed to manage or lower your risk of this illness.

With the support of your primary care team, you can take meaningful steps to prevent type 2 diabetes and enjoy better long-term health.

1. Personal and Family History Review

  • Review of weight trends, diet, activity levels
  • Family history of diabetes or prediabetes
  • History of blood sugar-related symptoms (fatigue, thirst, frequent urination)

2. Physical Exam and Measurements

  • Blood pressure reading
  • Height, weight, and BMI calculation
  • Waist circumference evaluation

3. Blood Testing

We use lab-based testing or in-office screening to evaluate key indicators:

  • Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) – Normal is below 100 mg/dL
  • Oral Glucose Tolerance Test – Assesses how your body processes sugar and is a key tool for diabetes risk assessment
  • Hemoglobin A1C Test – Shows average blood sugar over 3 months
  • Normal: below 5.7%
  • Prediabetes: 5.7%–6.4%
  • Diabetes: 6.5% or higher
  • Cholesterol and triglyceride panel (as heart disease is linked to diabetes)

4. Risk Scoring and Explanation

  • We calculate your diabetes risk score using national guidelines
  • Visual explanation of your results and risk factors
  • Printed summary and recommendations to take home

5. Prevention and Management Plan

  • Nutrition counseling and exercise planning
  • Smoking cessation and alcohol moderation support
  • Stress management strategies
  • Referral to a dietitian or endocrinologist if needed

What Are the Symptoms of Prediabetes or Diabetes?

In early stages, there may be no noticeable symptoms. That’s why routine risk assessments are so important. Still, you should watch for:

Early Warning Signs:

  • Increased thirst and frequent urination
  • Fatigue or unexplained weight loss
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing wounds
  • Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
  • Frequent infections (e.g., UTIs, skin issues)

Managing Prediabetes: Your Window of Opportunity

Prediabetes is a warning sign—but also a chance to prevent full-blown diabetes. With the right support, you can reverse it.

Tips for Managing Prediabetes:

  • Aim for 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week
  • Follow a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fiber, and lean proteins
  • Lose 5–7% of your body weight if overweight
  • Reduce added sugars and refined carbohydrates
  • Track your progress with regular check-ins

Our team will help you set realistic goals and track your success.

Diabetes Risk in Special Populations

Women with Gestational Diabetes:

  • At increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life
  • Screening 6–12 weeks after childbirth is essential
  • Continued testing every 1–3 years recommended

Older Adults:

  • May not show classic symptoms
  • Regular monitoring helps prevent complications from unnoticed high blood sugar

Teens and Young Adults:

  • Rising obesity rates have increased early-onset diabetes
  • Early risk screening recommended for those with family history or obesity

Why Choose mediDental care for Diabetes Screening in Astoria?

  • Accurate, lab-based testing with fast results
  • One-on-one counseling for prevention and education
  • Culturally inclusive care team sensitive to dietary and lifestyle needs
  • Integrated care approach for related conditions like hypertension or cholesterol
  • Convenient appointments and follow-up reminders

We’re not just here to diagnose—we’re here to partner with you for a healthier future.

Book Your Diabetes Risk Assessment in Astoria Today

Don’t wait until symptoms appear. Take the first step toward prevention with a personalized diabetes risk assessment at mediDental care.

📍 Located in Astoria, Queens
📞 Call us or book your appointment online

Prevent diabetes before it starts. Partner with mediDental care—your leader in primary care in Astoria.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare for a diabetes risk assessment?

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You may need to fast for 8–10 hours before a blood draw. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a list of medications.

Is diabetes preventable?

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In many cases, yes. Especially if caught during the prediabetes stage, you can prevent type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes.

Does insurance cover risk assessments and lab work?

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Most insurance plans cover diabetes screening as part of preventive care. We’ll verify your benefits before testing.

What if my A1C is borderline?

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We'll recommend lifestyle changes and a monitoring schedule. You may not need medication right away.

Can thin people get diabetes?

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Yes—while weight is a major risk factor, thin individuals with genetic or metabolic risks can also develop type 2 diabetes.

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Address:

2246 31st St, Astoria, NY 11105

Hours of Operation

Monday
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tuesday
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Wednesday
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Thursday
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday
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Saturday
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Sunday
11:00 am - 4:00 pm