(WENY) -- Many doctors are urging older patients to monitor their sleep and diet in light of World Diabetes Day. 

Data from the American Diabetes Association shows 1.4 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes every year. Prevalence amongst seniors remains high, with people the age of 65 or older making up roughly 30% (15.9 million seniors) of the national cases (37.3 million people). 

Symptoms include feeling sleepy or tired, slow weight gain, increased urination, and feeling hungry and thirsty more frequently. Risk factors include family history, lack of inactivity, and excessive unhealthy eating, which can contribute to high blood sugar and weight gain, and increases risk of getting diabetes. 

“If you are about the age of 40, you need to be tested,” Dr. Ahmet Can, M.D., with Arnot Health, said, adding “If one of your parents had diabetes, you’re 3 to 4 times more likely to get diabetes.”  

Dr. Can says some people might not even feel or experience any symptoms, and why older at-risk patients should get tested. He also says new developments used to monitor blood sugar levels can help people plan ahead and stay on top of their health. 

“They can test which food raises their sugar to what degree so they can better plan their meals,” Dr. Can, M.D. said. “They'll adjust their eating habits and can also see the effects of exercise on their blood sugar.” 

Anyone can get tested through multiple testing methods A1C Test, Fasting Blooding sugar test, or the glucose tolerance test. People can find out more information how to schedule a test with Arnot online.