World Diabetes Day

This day is dedicated to raising awareness about a disease that already affects hundreds of millions of people today, and to reminding us of the importance of prevention, early diagnosis, and quality treatment.

What You Should Know About Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disease in which the body cannot properly regulate blood glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form. Its development is closely linked to lifestyle factors: being overweight, a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and smoking.

Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and complicates its course. It reduces insulin sensitivity and increases the risk of cardiovascular complications, as well as damage to the kidneys, nerves, and blood vessels. Therefore, quitting tobacco or switching to less harmful alternatives (as part of harm reduction strategies) is one of the most important steps for people with diabetes and those at risk.

Where to Get Tested for Diabetes in Germany

The simplest and most accessible way is to see your family doctor (Hausarzt).

• Gesundheits-Check-up (Check-up 35) For those insured through a statutory health insurance fund (gesetzliche Krankenkasse):

  • once between the ages of 18 and 34;
  • every 3 years starting at age 35. The checkup is free and includes a fasting blood test (glucose and lipid levels) and a urine test. It is this check-up that often allows for the early detection of diabetes or prediabetes.

• If you have symptoms (extreme thirst, frequent urination, unexplained fatigue, weight loss) or risk factors, your doctor may order additional tests (HbA1c, oral glucose tolerance test) at any time.

• A quick, preliminary blood sugar test can be done at many pharmacies (usually for a fee; the result is for preliminary assessment only).

• If necessary, your family doctor will refer you to a diabetologist or endocrinologist.

You can also assess your risk in advance using free online tests (for example, FINDRISK or the German Diabetes Risk Test from DIfE).

What You Can Do Today

• Schedule a check-up with your Hausarzt if you haven’t had one yet.
• Pay attention to your diet and physical activity.
• If you smoke, take steps to reduce the harm or quit entirely.
• Support loved ones living with diabetes.

World Diabetes Day is a reminder that managing our health depends largely on our daily decisions and timely screenings.

Take care of yourself.