Testing for the deCODE T2™ risk variants can be considered for any patient who may benefit from a more thorough type 2 diabetes risk assessment. Testing is obviously most useful if results will impact clinical decision-making, such as recommendations for preventive measures or when considering specific drug regimens.*

Individuals at particularly increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes include:¹

• Patients with impaired fasting glucose or glucose tolerance (pre-diabetes)
• Patients who have recognized risk factors, such as:
• Being overweight (BMI greater than 25)
• Close relative with type 2 diabetes (such as parent or sibling)
• Physical inactivity / poor exercise regimen
• History of cardiovascular disease or risk factors such as hypertension, low HDL cholesterol, or high triglycerides
• History of gestational diabetes or large baby
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• High-risk ethnic group: African American, Latino, Asian American, Pacific Islander, Native American

Diabetes risk factors are cumulative. Since the deCODE T2™ variant appears to be an independent risk factor, the results can be used to adjust the background risk based on whatever factors may be present. Targeted studies of the relationship and relative contribution of the deCODE T2™ risk variant in comparison to some of these risk factors have not yet been completed.

* Since this test is relatively new, clinical guidelines and recommendations from professional societies are not yet available.

1. American Diabetes Association. Standards of medical care in diabetes—2008. Diabetes Care. 2008 Jan;31 Suppl 1:S12-54.