If you are overweight from age 35 onward, get a fasting blood-glucose test and repeat it every three years if normal
A blood test costing a few dozen renminbi can detect prediabetes before symptoms appear. The US screening recommendation covers adults aged 35–70 who are overweight or obese, with repeat testing every three years when results are normal.
What it takes
In China, fasting glucose costs a little over RMB 10, and HbA1c a few dozen renminbi. One hospital visit for a blood draw is enough.
What you may gain
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening asymptomatic adults aged 35–70 who are overweight or obese for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. It defines overweight as BMI ≥25 and obesity as BMI ≥30. This is a grade B recommendation. It also considers screening every 3 years reasonable for adults whose blood-glucose levels are normal.
Context & considerations
Prediabetes does not automatically mean medication. Many people can reverse it through lifestyle changes alone. In China, people who know they have diabetes have consistently been a minority of those affected; many discover it only after complications arise.
Research & references
US Preventive Services Task Force (2021). Screening for Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes. https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/screening-for-prediabetes-and-type-2-diabetes