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Diabetes screening — MCCQE Part 1 MCQ

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ModeratePreventive MedicineDiabetes screeningMCCQE Part 1

48-year-old man with obesity and hypertension presents with routine check-up. He has no symptoms of hyperglycaemia. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?

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Correct answer: A — Screen for diabetes with A1C or fasting glucose based on risk

Screen for diabetes with A1C or fasting glucose based on risk is best because risk factors justify diabetes screening. Use a United States screening schedule instead of Canadian guidance is suboptimal because MCCQE questions expect Canadian preventive-care guidance; Defer all preventive care until symptoms develop is suboptimal because screening and immunisation aim to prevent disease before symptoms; Order the most invasive test as routine first-line screening is suboptimal because screening should balance benefit, harm and resource use; Screen at every visit regardless of interval or prior results is suboptimal because over-screening causes avoidable false positives and harm. Canadian diabetes prevention includes cardiovascular risk management.

Reference: Diabetes Canada CPG 2025