Diabetes screening
Diabetology
Diabetology focuses on disorders of glucose metabolism and the prevention, treatment, and management of diabetes mellitus, as well as the prevention and diagnosis of its complications. More broadly, it also encompasses screening for lipid metabolism disorders, hypertension, and the complex dietary and pharmaceutical treatment of metabolic syndrome and obesity, as these conditions often co-occur. These disorders are highly prevalent, making diabetes a widespread disease. Despite this, it often remains undiagnosed until complications arise. Diabetes can be classified as type 1 (IDDM) or type 2 (NIDDM). In the case of type 2, gestational diabetes and prediabetes (conditions preceding diabetes) are also recognized.
What is Type 1 Diabetes (IDDM)?
Type 1 diabetes mellitus is primarily an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. The exact cause is often unknown. About 1% of the population is affected, although its prevalence has been increasing significantly in recent years for unknown reasons. It is most common in childhood and young adulthood, but cases in adults generally have a better prognosis. The destruction of these insulin-producing cells leads to severe insulin deficiency, causing a complete breakdown of glucose metabolism. This condition is incurable but can be well-managed with a strict diet, modern insulin therapies, or insulin pumps.
Common Symptoms at Onset:
- Weight loss
- Frequent thirst and increased urination
- Fatigue
- Increased appetite
- Dry skin
- Muscle cramps
Prediabetes (Conditions Preceding Type 2 Diabetes)
- Impaired Fasting Glucose (IFG): Fasting blood glucose levels exceed 6.1 mmol/L but remain below 7 mmol/L. A glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is recommended, where the 2-hour value is below 7.8 mmol/L.
- Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT): Fasting blood glucose may be below 6.1 mmol/L, but during OGTT, the 2-hour value ranges between 7.8 and 11.1 mmol/L.
Even elevated blood sugar levels can damage the cardiovascular system, even if diabetes is not yet present, but only prediabetes. This is why annual blood glucose testing is strongly recommended to detect carbohydrate metabolism disorders early.
Type 2 Diabetes (NIDDM)
This type of diabetes occurs when the insulin produced by the body cannot adequately lower blood sugar levels or facilitate glucose uptake by the cells. As a result, cellular starvation develops because glucose, the main energy source for cells, cannot enter them due to insulin resistance.
This condition may remain asymptomatic for years as the body compensates by producing higher amounts of insulin, maintaining normal blood sugar levels. Elevated blood sugar only appears once the pancreas can no longer compensate, and the insulin-producing beta cells become exhausted. Early detection of abnormalities highlights the risk of future diabetes and, with lifestyle changes and regular monitoring, the progression of pancreatic exhaustion can be delayed.
Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes:
- Overweight (BMI above 25, calculated as weight divided by height in meters squared)
- Obesity (BMI above 30)
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Genetic predisposition (family history of late-onset diabetes, obesity, women with newborns over 4 kg)
- As part of metabolic syndrome
- High consumption of added sugar-containing foods
- High blood pressure
- Coronary artery disease
Next Steps
If you suspect you belong to one of these risk groups or have similar symptoms, initial laboratory testing is recommended, followed by further diabetes-specific diagnostic tests based on the results.
Laboratory tests are available without waiting in Szeged and its surrounding areas on weekdays between 5:30 AM and 8:00 AM by prior appointment. Glucose tolerance testing, as part of the assessment, is performed by a diabetes nurse or diabetes educator.
From a medical perspective, this is the most informative time for fasting blood tests, as daily fluctuations can alter key risk indicators, potentially leading to misleading results.
Based on the lab results, consultations with our diabetologists are available, and, if needed, with our dietitian.