Diabetes Risk Calculator
Take the ADA risk test to find out your risk for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.
About the ADA Diabetes Risk Test
Based on the American Diabetes Association (ADA) risk test. Scores ≥5 indicate elevated risk and warrant blood sugar testing. Type 2 diabetes is often preventable — early detection is key.
Accuracy The ADA risk test correctly identifies approximately 79% of people with undiagnosed prediabetes or type 2 diabetes as elevated risk. It is a screening tool only — a blood test (fasting glucose or HbA1c) is required for diagnosis.
Scoring Guide
| Factor | Points |
|---|---|
| Age 40–49 | 1 |
| Age 50–59 | 2 |
| Age ≥60 | 3 |
| Parent or sibling with diabetes | 1 |
| Gestational diabetes history | 1 |
| High blood pressure | 1 |
| Not physically active | 1 |
| BMI 25–29 (overweight) | 1 |
| BMI ≥30 (obese) | 2 |
Total possible: 9 points. Score ≥5 = Elevated Risk.
What to do with your result
- If your score is 5 or higher, contact your doctor to arrange a fasting blood glucose or HbA1c test — this is the only way to confirm prediabetes or diabetes.
- If overweight, aim to lose 5–7% of your body weight through a combination of calorie reduction and increased physical activity.
- Complete at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise (brisk walking, cycling, swimming) each week to improve insulin sensitivity.
- Reduce consumption of refined carbohydrates, sugary drinks, and processed foods, and increase dietary fiber from vegetables and whole grains.
Frequently Asked Questions
What score indicates elevated diabetes risk on the ADA test?
A score of 5 or higher on the ADA risk test indicates elevated risk for prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetes Association recommends that anyone scoring 5 or above speak to their doctor and get a fasting blood glucose or HbA1c test.
Can type 2 diabetes be prevented if I have elevated risk?
Yes. Research shows that lifestyle interventions — specifically losing 5–7% of body weight and doing 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week — reduce the progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes by about 58%. Early action is the most effective prevention strategy.
Does family history significantly raise my diabetes risk?
Yes. Having a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes roughly doubles your lifetime risk. The ADA test adds 1 point for this factor. If both parents have diabetes, your risk is even higher. Genetic predisposition combined with lifestyle factors is the strongest predictor of type 2 diabetes.
Is BMI the most important factor in the ADA risk test?
BMI contributes up to 2 points (the highest single-factor score) in the ADA test, making it one of the most impactful modifiable risk factors. A BMI of 30 or above (obese) gives 2 points, while a BMI of 25–29 (overweight) gives 1 point. Weight management is therefore a central strategy for reducing diabetes risk.
Should I get tested for diabetes even with a low score?
The ADA recommends that all adults aged 35 and over receive routine blood sugar screening regardless of risk score, especially if they are overweight. A low score on this questionnaire does not rule out diabetes — only a blood test can confirm your blood sugar levels.
This calculator is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical advice.