NHS Diabetes Risk Calculator
This independent UK tool helps you review established risk factors for type 2 diabetes and points you to the validated Diabetes UK Know Your Risk assessment. It does not reproduce or claim to be the official NHS or Diabetes UK score.
Type 2 diabetes risk-factor checker
For adults aged 18+. Do not use during pregnancy.
What is an NHS diabetes risk calculator?
People searching for an NHS diabetes risk calculator are usually looking for an estimate of their chance of developing type 2 diabetes. NHS England directs people to Diabetes UK’s Know Your Risk tool, an evidence-based assessment developed with the University of Leicester and University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust.
How this checker works
This page deliberately does not copy the proprietary/controlled Diabetes UK scoring implementation. Instead, it checks the same broad evidence-based risk-factor areas: age, sex, ethnic background, family history, waist measurement, BMI and high blood pressure. It calculates BMI from your height and weight and highlights factors that may justify a validated assessment.
Why there is no percentage result here
A simple count of risk factors is not the same as a validated 10-year diabetes risk score. NICE recommends validated computer-based tools or validated self-assessment questionnaires for risk identification. For that reason, this independent checker does not invent a percentage or label you low, medium, high or very high risk.
Understanding the risk factors
Type 2 diabetes risk is influenced by factors including age, ethnicity, family history, weight or BMI, waist size, sex and high blood pressure. Some factors cannot be changed, while weight, waist size and lifestyle may be modifiable for some people.
What to do next
For a validated result, use Diabetes UK Know Your Risk. NHS England also advises that people can ask their GP practice about diabetes risk. In England, eligible people aged 40 to 74 may be offered an NHS Health Check.
Worked example
Suppose an adult enters age 52, male, 175 cm, 90 kg, a 102 cm waist, a close family history of type 2 diabetes and a history of high blood pressure. The checker calculates BMI as 29.4 kg/m² and highlights the relevant entered risk factors. It does not convert them into an invented probability; the next step is the validated Know Your Risk assessment or professional advice.
Limitations
This checker is not diagnostic, does not measure blood glucose or HbA1c, and cannot tell you whether you have diabetes. It is for adults and should not be used during pregnancy. If you already have diabetes, have symptoms, are pregnant, or are concerned about your health, seek appropriate healthcare advice rather than relying on this page.
Authoritative sources
- NHS England — NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme
- Diabetes UK — Know Your Risk for professionals
- NICE PH38 — type 2 diabetes prevention recommendations
- NHS — NHS Health Check
Related calculators
NHS Calculator · NHS Heart Age Calculator · QRISK2 Score NHS Calculator · Life Expectancy Calculator NHS · NHS Prostate Cancer Risk Calculator
FAQs
Is this the official NHS diabetes risk calculator?
No. This is an independent educational tool and is not operated, approved or endorsed by the NHS.
Does this calculator diagnose diabetes?
No. A risk assessment is not a diagnosis. Blood testing and clinical assessment may be needed.
Which risk factors does the validated assessment use?
Diabetes UK describes seven areas: age, sex, ethnicity, family history, waist measurement, BMI and blood pressure.
Can I use it while pregnant?
No. The validated Know Your Risk assessment is not intended for pregnant women, and this checker should not be used during pregnancy.
Medical disclaimer: This independent tool is for general information only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or a substitute for a validated diabetes risk assessment or professional care.