A physician can determine if a child or adolescent has diabetes, is overweight or is obese.

The most common standard for measuring obesity has been the body mass index (BMI), a calculation based on an individual’s weight and height. Children who are at or above the 95^th percentile for BMI for their age are considered obese. Those who score between the 85^th and 94^th percentile are considered overweight. Another assessment tool is the waist-hip ratio, which divides waist circumference by hip circumference.

Parents who are concerned that their child may be overweight and thus at risk for developing type 2 diabetes should schedule an appointment with the child’s pediatrician.

The office visit will likely include a physical exam and medical history. This will include questions about a history of:

• Family members who have diabetes
  
  
• Black American, Hispanic, Native American, Asian American or Pacific Islander heritage
  
  
• Birth weight under 5 pounds or over 10 pounds
  
  
• Elevated glucose (blood sugar), elevated blood pressure, unhealthy levels of cholesterol or high levels of triglycerides

Glucose tests and often other blood tests are also performed when diabetes is suspected.