How the SugarRisk Index works

The SugarRisk index is an educational score 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 information easier to understand – not to give 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.

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.