Who Should be Screened? Using The Canadian Diabetes Risk Questionnaire (CANRISK)

Case Study

Mr. AW, 42-years old, presents today in your office. He was at his local pharmacy where he had completed the Canadian Diabetes Risk Questionnaire (CANRISK). Having received a score of 33 (high risk), it was recommended that he make an appointment to see his physician for further diabetes workup.

Click here to view the Canadian Diabetes Risk Questionnaire (CANRISK) (printable and downloadable version)

Click here to view the Canadian Diabetes Risk Questionnaire (CANRISK) interactive online questionnaire

Click here to view Screening for and Diagnosing Diabetes: Health Care Provider Tool

Should Mr. AW be screened for diabetes?

Yes No
Reveal Answer

You are correct!

That answer is incorrect.

Mr. AW qualifies for screening on a variety of levels:

  • High risk based on risk calculator
  • Individuals ≥ 40 should be screened every three years

In addition, Mr. AW has the following risk factors:

  • Age ≥ 40
  • First-degree relative with type 2 diabetes
  • Member od high-risk population: Asian
  • Overweight
  • Abdominal obesity

These factors are used to calculate his CANRISK score. Further investigation would probably reveal additional risk factors.

What tests should be ordered to screen for diabetes?

FPG A1C FPG and A1C
Reveal Answer

You are correct!

You are correct!

Diabetes Canada’s Guidelines suggest screening with a FPG and/or A1C. In this case, a FPG and A1C is ordered.

Screening tests for type 2 diabetes reveal the following results:

  • FPG: 5.8 mmol/L
  • A1C: 6.3%

What would be the next steps?

Repeat both tests (FPG and the A1C)
Repeat the “higher” test
Initiate healthy behaviour interventions
Reveal Answer

You are correct!

That answer is incorrect.

Initiate healthy behaviour interventions.

Mr AW has prediabetes and repeat testing is not required. An OGTT can be considered, but is not mandatory. Healthy behaviour interventions and or dietary patterns shown to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes should be instituted (see chapter "Reducing the risk of developing diabetes") and FPG and/or A1C should be repeated in 3-6 months.


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