A new test reveals the risk of developing key chronic diseases and supports healthy lifestyle change
The risk test for chronic diseases has been published online. The test provides a quick and easy way to assess one’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and/or memory disorders. The test was developed by THL and the Finnish Diabetes Association.
The risk test is intended for adults for self-directed promotion of wellbeing and health. The test aims to raise interest in personal health and support making healthy lifestyle changes—step by step.
Many adults in Finland may be at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and/or memory disorders.
“These common medical conditions are detrimental to wellbeing and functional capacity, especially for ageing individuals. It is important to identify the risks so that they can be tackled at an early stage, potentially even preventing the conditions altogether”, says THL’s Research Manager Jaana Lindström.
Chronic non-communicable diseases affect work ability and have thus a significant impact on national economy.
In Finland, each year approximately 23,000 people are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
Roughly 22,000 receive hospital treatment for myocardial infarction and over 24,000 suffer from stroke.
Circa 23,000 individuals are diagnosed with memory disorders.
Risk factors are common and can be reduced through lifestyles
The risk test assesses individual susceptibility to develop type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases over the next decade, and the susceptibility to develop memory disorders over the next two decades. Scientific evidence shows a strong correlation between these conditions: developing one may lead to an increased risk of developing another.
Common risk factors for these conditions include overweight, elevated blood cholesterol levels, and high blood pressure. The conditions develop slowly and often without noticeable symptoms. Consequently, it has been estimated that approximately one in five individuals with type 2 diabetes are unaware of their condition.
“It is important to become aware of one’s risk and know how to influence it. Even small improvements to lifestyles can help to stay healthy and functional longer. Besides information, the risk test also provides practical suggestions for actions that everyone can take to reduce their risk”, says Director Sari Koski from the Diabetes Association.
For example, regular physical activity in a preferred format, sufficient rest and recovery, as well as healthy eating habits all promote health.
The test builds on three tools developed by THL
The new test brings on the same platform three risk-assessment tools that have been developed at THL based on population studies conducted in Finland.
The test is not a diagnostic tool but provides generic feedback on the likelihood of developing each of the three chronic conditions.
The test is intended for adults for independent use. Health professionals can, however, encourage their clients to complete the test and assess their lifestyles.
Risk test for chronic diseases
Risk test (in Finnish): diabetes.fi/riskitesti
Further information:
Sari Koski
Director, Courses and Information Services
Finnish Diabetes Association
Tel. 050 310 6600
[email protected]
Jaana Lindström
Research Manager
Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare
tel. 029 524 8635
[email protected]
The risk test for chronic diseases has been developed collaboratively by the Finnish Diabetes Association and THL as part of the EU Joint Action JACARDI (Joint Action on Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes).
JACARDI Project Page
