Dr. Zahra Abbaspour, a subspecialist in endocrinology and metabolism, stated that the diagnosis of diabetes must be conducted in laboratories under standardized conditions, and that measurements obtained from home devices cannot be considered a diagnostic criterion. In an interview with Webda–Zanjan, Dr. Abbaspour reported that, according to the latest statistics released by the Tehran Research Center, 14 percent of Iran’s population is affected by diabetes. More concerning, however, is the fact that half of these individuals are unaware of their condition.

She explained that diabetes encompasses a group of metabolic disorders whose ultimate outcome is elevated blood glucose. The most prevalent form is type 2 diabetes, which is increasingly being diagnosed at younger ages, even among children and adolescents. Sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and rising obesity rates are among the major contributing factors. Emphasizing the asymptomatic nature of diabetes in its early stages, Dr. Abbaspour noted that “the most common symptom of diabetes is the absence of symptoms.” For this reason, universal screening from the age of 35 is essential, even for individuals without risk factors. Screening involves a simple fasting blood glucose test and measurement of hemoglobin A1C (three‑month average blood sugar). If results are normal, the test should be repeated every three years. Those with family history, obesity, hypertension, or lipid disorders should be screened at younger ages. Highlighting the encouraging prospects of disease control, she stated that in type 2 diabetes, lifestyle modification, weight reduction, adherence to a balanced diet, and regular exercise can reverse the condition. In some cases, patients with strong determination have even succeeded in discontinuing their medications.

Dr. Abbaspour also underscored the pivotal role of genetics in type 2 diabetes, while stressing that lifestyle modification remains the primary preventive strategy. Stress management, increased physical activity, avoidance of fast food, and adherence to healthy nutrition are, she emphasized, the most effective tools in combating the diabetes epidemic. This is particularly vital for safeguarding the health of children and adolescents against the disease.