How the SugarRisk Index works

The SugarRisk Index is a risk estimate that combines several well-known risk factors for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes into a single 0–100 scale. It is designed to make complex screening factors easier to interpret and discuss—not to provide a diagnosis.

1. Inputs used in the calculator

When you fill in the form, the calculator looks at:

• Age and sex at birth
• Height, weight and estimated BMI
• Waist circumference (central fat distribution)
• Physical activity level
• Blood pressure status (normal / high / on medication)
• Family history of type 2 diabetes
• Optional lab values: fasting glucose and A1C

2. How the 0–100 score is built

Each factor adds a small or larger amount of “risk points” based on ranges that are commonly used in diabetes screening tools and guidelines. For example:

• Higher age bands add more points.
• Overweight and obesity (higher BMI) add additional points.
• Larger waist circumference adds points for central obesity.
• Sedentary lifestyle adds more points than regular exercise.
• Borderline or raised fasting glucose and A1C add extra weight.

The total is then normalised onto a 0–100 range, which we call the SugarRisk index.

3. Interpreting your SugarRisk index

Your result is grouped into broad bands:

• 0–33 · Low estimated risk band
• 34–66 · Moderate estimated risk band
• 67–100 · High estimated risk band

These bands are approximate and are meant to highlight trends, not to confirm or rule out diabetes or prediabetes.

Scientific basis and sources

SugarRisk uses risk factors commonly included in diabetes screening recommendations and established diabetes risk assessment tools. These include age, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, physical activity, family history, blood pressure, fasting glucose and A1C.

The SugarRisk 0–100 index is a simplified educational scoring system and has not been clinically validated as an independent diagnostic or predictive model. It should not be used to diagnose or rule out prediabetes or diabetes.

4. What to do with a higher score

A higher SugarRisk index suggests that your combination of age, body size, activity and other factors may warrant closer monitoring. In practice this can mean:

• Scheduling a check-up with your doctor or nurse.
• Asking about fasting glucose, A1C or an oral glucose tolerance test.
• Reviewing lifestyle: sleep, diet quality, movement, stress, smoking.
• Tracking changes over time rather than focusing on a single number.