Detecting diabetes early and taking timely action are crucial for preventing its complications. Traditional diabetes risk assessments typically rely on factors like age, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and family history. Although these methods are useful, their accuracy remains limited. Luckily, researchers have created a new blood test that examines DNA methylation changes to better predict the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D).This breakthrough offers hope for detecting diabetes risk up to 10 years earlier, enabling people to take preventive health measures sooner.

DNA Methylation Analysis: Detecting Diabetes Risk 10 Years Early

According to a study published by a research team at the University of Edinburgh in the journal Nature Aging, DNA methylation data is more accurate than traditional risk assessment methods. The study found that combining DNA methylation analysis with basic health data—such as BMI, blood pressure, and family history—significantly improves the precision of diabetes risk prediction. In large-scale testing, the DNA methylation model outperformed conventional methods in identifying high-risk individuals earlier and more accurately.

Using this method, scientists estimate that about one-third of a population of 10,000 people may develop diabetes within the next decade. The new DNA methylation test can more accurately pinpoint these high-risk individuals, making early diabetes screening more efficient.

Who Should Pay Special Attention?

Awareness of diabetes remains low, with nearly 60% of patients unaware they have the disease, missing the chance for timely intervention. To help high-risk groups recognize diabetes risk early, the following people should pay close attention to their health and consider diabetes screening:

1. High-Risk Groups

People who have a family history of diabetes, such as parents or other relatives with the condition.

People who are overweight or obese (BMI of 24 kg/m² or higher), particularly those with excess fat around the abdomen.

Women who have previously given birth to large babies or experienced gestational diabetes.

Individuals suffering from high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, or abnormal cholesterol levels.

Those with unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles—frequent consumption of high-calorie, high-fat foods and lack of exercise increase diabetes risk.

2. People Showing Symptoms of Diabetes

Early symptoms of diabetes are often mild. If you frequently experience excessive thirst, frequent urination, increased appetite, fatigue, mood swings, or unexplained weight loss, see a doctor promptly, as these may be early signs of diabetes.

3. People Over 35 Years Old

According to the latest diabetes prevention guidelines, people over 35, especially those with risk factors, should undergo regular diabetes screening. If results are normal, screening is recommended every three years; if prediabetes is detected, yearly screening is advised.

Effective Measures to Prevent Diabetes:

1. Diet Control

Follow a low-sugar, low-fat diet: reduce intake of sugary and fatty foods, and increase vegetables, whole grains, and protein.

Limit processed foods: avoid foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.

Eat meals regularly and avoid overeating to control post-meal blood sugar spikes.

2. Increase Physical Activity

Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling.

Exercise enhances insulin sensitivity, helping control blood sugar levels.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Weight management is crucial for diabetes prevention. Even modest weight loss can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce diabetes risk.

4. Regular Health Check-ups

Undergo diabetes risk screening regularly, especially if you have a family history or obesity.

Monitor blood sugar levels to detect prediabetes or diabetes early.

Diabetes Risk Factors and Insulin Resistance:

Diabetes development is closely linked to insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar, and insulin resistance means the body’s response to insulin is weakened, causing blood sugar to rise. Common causes include long-term high-sugar diets, obesity, lack of exercise, and genetics.

Insulin resistance increases the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and high cholesterol. Early detection and intervention can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes and related complications.

Conclusion

Diabetes is a chronic condition, but through early screening and healthy lifestyle interventions, its harmful effects can be greatly reduced. For high-risk individuals, new technologies like DNA methylation analysis offer more precise and effective tools for early diabetes warning and prevention.