From Risk to Resilience: How Regular Checkups Help Prevent Diabetes
Diabetes is one of the most prevalent and fastest-growing chronic diseases worldwide, yet it is also one of the most preventable and manageable. While genetics and age contribute to a person’s risk, early detection, proactive care, and healthy lifestyle choices can make a significant difference in preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes: what you need to know
Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that occurs when the body cannot properly produce or use insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar (glucose). As a result, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, which can lead to serious health complications over time.
The three main types of diabetes are:
Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells. Requires daily insulin therapy.
Type 2 Diabetes: The most common form, characterized by insulin resistance. Often preventable or delayable through lifestyle interventions.
Gestational Diabetes: Develops during pregnancy, usually resolving after delivery, but increases the future risk of type 2 diabetes.
The most common form is type 2 diabetes, which often develops gradually and is influenced by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Some of the primary risk factors include:
Being overweight or obese
Physical inactivity
Family history of diabetes
High blood pressure or elevated cholesterol
A history of gestational diabetes
Before type 2 diabetes develops, many individuals experience prediabetes, a condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetes range. The encouraging news is that prediabetes can often be reversed through early detection, healthy eating, and regular physical activity.
Early Detection & Symptoms
Because type 2 diabetes often develops quietly, without obvious symptoms, early screening can make all the difference. At Culver Primary, our trusted primary care team uses simple blood tests to identify prediabetes and diabetes early—so you can take control of your health with confidence and support every step of the way.
Recognizing the early signs of diabetes can help you seek treatment before complications develop. Some common symptoms include:
Frequent urination
Excessive thirst or hunger
Fatigue and weakness
Blurred vision
Unexplained weight loss
Slow-healing wounds
Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, don’t wait—schedule a quick, hassle-free blood sugar test with Culver Primary. Your health and peace of mind come first, and we’re here to make proactive care simple, supportive, and stress-free.
The Critical Role of Culver Primary in your care
At Culver Primary, we’re more than prescribers, we’re your partners in long-term health. Our team takes a proactive approach to prevention, chronic care, and complexity management, ensuring you stay healthy and supported every step of the way.
Tests for type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and prediabetes.
Understanding your diabetes test results is key to managing your health. This chart breaks down the three main blood sugar tests—the Hemoglobin A1c, Fasting Blood Sugar, and Random Blood Sugar tests—along with the target ranges for diagnosis. Use this quick reference guide to see what each test measures and what the results mean.
Diagnosis and Treatment Plan: At Culver Primary, we go beyond the numbers. Our expert physicians analyze your test results, identify your exact type of diabetes, and design a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs, combining the right medications with lifestyle strategies to support your best health.
The Diabetes ABCs: At Culver Primary, we help you hit your critical targets to minimize complications:
A is for A1C (blood sugar control).
B is for Blood Pressure (controlling hypertension).
C is for Cholesterol (managing lipids).
Preventive Screening: We coordinate seamlessly towards annual checks for related complications, including foot exams, eye exams, and kidney function tests.
Referrals and Education: We act as your gateway to specialized care, including endocrinologists, registered dietitians, and crucial support services like Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES).
When you partner with Culver Primary PCP, you are leveraging a structured, evidence-based approach to not just treat diabetes, but to control your health trajectory.
How to Manage Diabetes
Living with diabetes doesn’t mean giving up the things you love, it means finding balance and making informed choices. Here at Culver Primary our PCP guides you through every step:
1. Schedule your A1C with Culver Primary
At Culver Primary, we can help you seamlessly check in with you glucose every 2 to 3 months. Develop a detailed treatment plan as needed.
2. Eat a Healthy Diet
Focus on whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats. Avoid sugary drinks and processed foods. Portion control and balanced meals help keep blood sugar steady.
3. Stay Active
Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity and helps control weight. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
4. Monitor Blood Sugar Levels
Regular testing helps you understand how food, exercise, and medications affect your blood glucose.
5. Take Medications as Prescribed
If your doctor prescribes medication or insulin, take it consistently. Never change your dosage without consulting your healthcare team.
6. Manage Stress
Stress can raise blood sugar levels. Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
Type 2 diabetes can often be delayed or avoided with lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating balanced meals, and staying physically active.
Diabetes may be a lifelong condition, but with the right care, you can live a full and healthy life. Stay proactive by monitoring your blood sugar, following a nutritious diet, staying active, and keeping regular appointments with Culver Primary. Small steps each day can lead to long-term health success.
Need Guidance?
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Schedule a A1C screening with Culver Primary, learn your risk, and let us create a personalized plan to protect your health. Your journey to better health starts with one step and we’re here to take it with you.
