Review the following 'Questions To Ask' about diabetes so you're prepared to discuss this important health issue with your health care professional.

1. Am I at risk for diabetes?

2. What signs and symptoms indicate that I may have diabetes?

3. What type of tests should I have to find out if I have diabetes?

4. What can I do to prevent the disease from developing, if other members of my family have it?

If you have already been diagnosed with diabetes ask these questions:

1. What are my "ABC" numbers? A for A1C (or hemoglobin A1C) test; B is for blood pressure; and C is for cholesterol.

2. What should my "ABC" target numbers be?

3. What actions should I take to reach my "ABC" numbers?

4. When and under what conditions should I test my blood sugar?

5. When should I see a dietitian to review what I eat?

6. What effect has diabetes had on my eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart? What tests do I need to monitor these body functions?

7. Which exercises are best for me?

8. Do you think my daily regimen is helping me control my diabetes, or do I need to change it? What changes do I need to make to the food I eat or the insulin I take? Should I exercise more?

9. How should I take care of my feet? What types of socks and shoes should I wear?

10. Are there any new medications or combinations of medications that could help me manage my type 2 diabetes?