Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test

What is FINDRISC?

FINDRISC (Finnish Diabetes Risk Score) is a validated questionnaire developed by the Finnish Diabetes Association to predict the 10-year risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. It has been validated in multiple populations worldwide and is recommended by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) for diabetes screening. It uses simple, non-invasive questions — no blood test or lab visit required.

What are the risk factors for Type 2 diabetes?

• Age: Risk increases significantly after age 45
• Body weight: Being overweight (BMI > 25) or obese (BMI > 30) is the strongest modifiable risk factor
• Waist circumference: Central obesity (fat around the abdomen) increases risk more than overall body weight
• Physical inactivity: Less than 30 minutes of daily activity raises risk
• Diet: Low fruit and vegetable intake is associated with higher risk
• Family history: Having a parent or sibling with diabetes doubles your risk
• Blood pressure medication: History of high blood pressure is a marker for metabolic syndrome
• Previous high blood sugar: Gestational diabetes or borderline readings indicate insulin resistance

How to reduce your diabetes risk

Research shows that Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes — even if you have a high risk score:

• Lose 5-7% of body weight if overweight — even moderate weight loss significantly reduces risk
• Exercise 30 minutes daily — brisk walking, cycling, or any moderate activity
• Eat more fiber — whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes
• Reduce refined carbs and sugar — white rice, white bread, sugary drinks
• Get regular checkups — fasting blood sugar and HbA1c tests

Diabetes in India

India has over 100 million people living with diabetes, making it the diabetes capital of the world. South Asians are genetically predisposed to insulin resistance and tend to develop diabetes at lower BMI levels compared to Western populations. Early screening through tools like FINDRISC can help identify at-risk individuals before symptoms appear, enabling preventive action through diet and exercise changes.