The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that anyone age 45 or older be tested for diabetes, especially if they are overweight. A diabetes test is also recommended for those who have one or more of the following risk factors:

. Being overweight or obese

. A parent, brother or sister with diabetes

. Physical inactivity – exercising fewer than three times a week

. African-American, American Indian, Asian American, Pacific Islander or Hispanic American-Latino heritage

. History of gestational diabetes or birth of at least one baby weighing more than 9 pounds

. High blood pressure measuring 140/90 or higher

. Abnormal cholesterol where HDL, or “good” cholesterol is 35 or lower or triglyceride level is 250 or higher

Symptoms of diabetes include:

. Frequent urination

. Excessive thirst

. Unexplained weight loss

. Extreme hunger

. Sudden vision changes

. Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

. Feeling very tired much of the time

. Very dry skin

. Sores that are slow to heal

. More infections than usual

Source: Maine Diabetes Prevention & Control Program