Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. It increases the risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. The good news is, prediabetes is reversible!
In 2021, 10.7% of adults reported having prediabetes. Of those, 50.4% had high cholesterol, and 43.1% had high blood pressure.
Ask your healthcare provider about getting a simple blood test if you have any of these risk factors:
- Unhealthy weight (overweight or obese; BMI of 25 or higher)
- Age 45 or older
- A family history of type 2 diabetes
- Less than 3 days of physical activity a week
- A history of gestational diabetes or giving birth to a baby over 9 pounds
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
Adults aged 35-70 who are overweight or obese should get screened for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.
Prediabetes FAQs
An A1c blood test helps identify prediabetes.
| Result | A1c |
|---|---|
| Normal | Less than 5.7% |
| Prediabetes | 5.7% - 6.4% |
| Diabetes | 6.5% or more |
There are no clear symptoms of prediabetes. Prediabetes may go undetected until type 2 diabetes develops.
Without health behavior changes, you could develop type 2 diabetes within five years.
To reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes:
- Stay physically active
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Quit smoking
People with prediabetes who lose 5-7% of their weight and add 150 minutes of weekly exercise cut their risk of developing type 2 diabetes in half.
The National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP) helps reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes. The program includes a CDC-approved curriculum, a lifestyle coach, and support from people with similar goals.
Ask your healthcare provider for a referral or contact a program for more details.
