Diabetes Risk Calculator
Answer 7 quick questions to assess your risk for type 2 diabetes — based on validated clinical screening factors used by the CDC and ADA.
1. What is your age?
2. What is your body mass index (BMI)?
3. Do you have a parent or sibling with diabetes?
4. Are you physically active (at least 150 min/week of moderate exercise)?
5. Have you ever been told you have high blood pressure?
6. Have you ever been diagnosed with prediabetes or gestational diabetes?
7. Do you identify as Black, Hispanic/Latino, Native American, Asian American, or Pacific Islander?
Risk Score
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What this means
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Related guide
Prediabetes Guide — What It Means and How to Reverse It
If your risk is elevated, understand what prediabetes means and what lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes.
Read the guide →
Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes develops when the body can no longer produce enough insulin or use it effectively. Several well-established risk factors increase the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. According to the NIDDK, the most significant include:
| Risk Factor | Relative Risk Increase |
|---|---|
| Prediabetes (A1C 5.7–6.4%) | Very high — up to 10× increased risk |
| Obesity (BMI ≥ 30) | 3–7× increased risk |
| First-degree relative with diabetes | 2–3× increased risk |
| Physical inactivity | 2× increased risk |
| High blood pressure | 1.5–2× increased risk |
| Age 45 or older | Risk increases progressively |
| Gestational diabetes history | 7× lifetime risk |
Source: NIDDK
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this diabetes risk calculator?
This calculator is based on validated risk factors used in the CDC's Diabetes Risk Test and ADA screening guidelines. It provides an educational estimate of relative risk — not a medical diagnosis. A formal diabetes diagnosis requires a laboratory blood test (fasting glucose, A1C, or oral glucose tolerance test) ordered by a healthcare provider. Use this calculator as a starting point for a conversation with your doctor, especially if your score is elevated.
What should I do if my diabetes risk is high?
If your risk score is elevated, the most important next step is to get an A1C or fasting glucose test from your doctor. If tests confirm prediabetes (A1C 5.7%–6.4%), the ADA Diabetes Prevention Program has shown that modest lifestyle changes — losing 5–7% of body weight and 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week — can reduce progression to diabetes by 58%. If you already have diabetes, work with your healthcare team on a management plan.
Can type 2 diabetes be prevented?
For many people, yes. The landmark Diabetes Prevention Program clinical trial demonstrated that lifestyle interventions (diet and exercise) reduced the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 58% in people with prediabetes. Even modest weight loss — 5–7% of body weight — and regular physical activity have a substantial protective effect. Metformin also reduced risk by 31% in the same trial. Early action when risk is elevated gives the best chance of prevention.
Does family history of diabetes mean I will get it?
No — family history increases risk, but it does not make diabetes inevitable. Having a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes approximately doubles your risk compared to the general population. However, lifestyle factors play an enormous role. Many people with strong family histories of diabetes never develop it by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and eating a balanced diet. Knowing your family history is valuable because it motivates earlier screening and preventive action.
At what age should I get screened for diabetes?
The ADA recommends screening all adults aged 35–70 who are overweight or have obesity. Screening at any age is recommended for adults with risk factors such as family history of diabetes, history of gestational diabetes, PCOS, or high blood pressure. The USPSTF recommends screening starting at age 35. If you have multiple risk factors, discuss earlier screening with your doctor. Testing typically starts with a fasting glucose or A1C test.