Fueled largely by rising rates of obesity, diabetes has become a global epidemic. The estimated number of people with diabetes has soared from 30 million in 1985 to 246 million in 2007, the International Diabetes Federation reports. Nearly eight percent of Americans are diabetic, and a whopping one-third of Americans born in 2000 will develop the disease, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns. Even more alarming is that many people with diabetes don't know they have it.

The good news: Diabetes can often be prevented with weight loss, exercise and a sensible diet. A simple test can catch the disease early. Symptoms vary and aren't always present, but there are warning signs you can watch for. Here’s how to spot red-flag symptoms that may indicate you're at risk.

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