Interviewer instructions
This question serves to identify individuals with a diagnosed case of diabetes or diabetes mellitus (sometimes called “high blood sugar”). Diabetes is a chronic (or long-term) condition whereby a person’s pancreas has problems producing insulin. Insulin is necessary to turn the sugars and starches that people eat into glucose (a simple sugar), to help regulate the body’s blood sugar levels. People with diabetes eventually develop a high blood sugar
level, which can lead to blood vessel abnormalities that can cause damage to the kidneys, nerves and heart. While diabetes cannot be cured, it can be successfully treated. Weight control, regular exercise and reducing sugar intake are important factors in lowering blood sugar levels.
See question note Q6000.
