Many people only learn they are at risk of type 2 diabetes after a routine blood test. The encouraging part is that knowing early gives you more options. Whether you want to lower your risk or live well with a diagnosis, small, steady steps can make a real difference.

Family history, age, weight and activity levels all play a part in type 2 diabetes risk. A simple first step is the free AUSDRISK tool, which you can bring to your appointment. From there, your GP can talk through whether a blood test is suitable for you. Knowing your risk is not a verdict. It is simply information you can act on, and the earlier you have it, the more time you have to make changes at a comfortable pace.

Diabetes Australia highlights that healthy eating, regular physical activity and keeping to a healthy weight range can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This does not mean a dramatic overhaul. A daily walk, more vegetables on the plate and better sleep are good places to begin.

Lifestyle has long been a passion of mine. I completed a postgraduate diploma in diabetes and endocrinology, and I was Practice Lead for the DiRECT Trial, a study exploring diabetes remission through lifestyle intervention. Experiences like this shaped how I support patients today: practical, encouraging and focused on what you can do.

If you already have diabetes, regular reviews help keep your care on track. These usually include blood glucose checks, blood pressure, cholesterol, kidney function, and checks of your eyes and feet. Your plan may also include medicines where appropriate, and we can adjust it as your needs change. Please bring your questions about food, activity or medicines, because no question is too small.

At Carrara Family Practice, our diabetes and lifestyle clinics and shared medical appointments offer extra ways to learn, ask questions and stay motivated.

Let us walk with you

You do not have to work it all out alone. Book a visit at Carrara Family Practice, 2 Alzino Place, Carrara. We are a bulk billed family clinic, and our team can confirm how billing applies to your appointment. We are open Monday to Friday, 7am to 5pm, and you can call (07) 5594 4118. We welcome patients from Carrara and across the Gold Coast.

Dr Narsimha K R Vuthpala (Dr Kal), MBBS, FRACGP

Principal GP, Carrara Family Practice

AHPRA registration number: MED0002123020