Today is Diabetes Alert Day, and there is good reason to be on high alert in Suffolk.

Diabetes and complications of the disease are higher in Suffolk than in other parts of the state. The American Diabetes and other organizations hope to turn that around today with Diabetes Alert Day. Learning about a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes early enough can help patients prevent or reverse developing the disease or serious complications.

The Suffolk Family YMCA will recognize the day today with screenings and special workout classes that are open to the public.

Risk of diabetes increases with age. Men are more likely than women to have undiagnosed diabetes, perhaps because they see their doctor less regularly. In addition, women who have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes while pregnant are also at risk to develop Type 2 later in life.

People who are inactive, overweight and who have been diagnosed with high blood pressure are also more likely to have diabetes.

People of certain races and ethnicities, including black people, are more likely to have diabetes.

A family history of diabetes is also a very strong indicator of diabetes risk.

We encourage all Suffolk residents, especially those who have some of the above risk factors, to stop by the Suffolk Family YMCA from 9 a.m. to noon today and get screened. Yes, it will cost you a finger stick and a few minutes of your time, but you may have the opportunity to add quality and quantity of years to your life if you catch diabetes early.