What are my chances of getting diabetes?

Q: My fasting blood glucose level is 6.8 mmo/l and PP blood sugar is 5.7 mmo/l. Can you tell me why this is so? My family has a history of diabetes. What are my chances of getting diabetes and why is this abnormality in blood sugar levels? I had the test repeated twice to confirm the correct values.

A:Your sugar values are not unusual, and indicate disordered insulin secretion. Typically such values are seen in individuals who have a family history of diabetes like you. While these values are not suggestive of frank diabetes, many scientists feel that they do indicate a greater propensity for developing the disease. You should, therefore take adequate precautions, like healthy diet, regular exercise. Also you must ensure that you are not or do not become overweight.