Should I be Concerned about Prediabetes?

Prediabetes is a common condition, occurring in 1 out of every 3 adults. Because prediabetes often has no symptoms or warning signs, most people are not aware they have this condition.

What is prediabetes?

Prediabetes occurs when your blood sugar levels are above normal, but below the range for having type 2 diabetes. If you have prediabetes, it means that your body is not able to properly process sugar from the foods you eat. This could be due to a shortage of insulin from your pancreas or that your body is not using that insulin properly.

Who is at risk?

Prediabetes is more common in adults who are overweight, 45 years of age or older, and are not physically active. Other risk factors include those who are African American, Alaska Native, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander American. Prediabetes is also common in those who have:

• a parent, brother, or sister with diabetes
• health conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and have had diabetes during a pregnancy
• a history of heart disease or stroke
• a diagnosis of metabolic syndrome
• a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome

How do I know if I have prediabetes?

Your doctor may order a blood test to determine if you fall into the range for prediabetes.

Who should be tested?

Adults who are 45 years of age or older should be tested. Those individuals who are who are overweight, obese, or of African American, Alaska Native, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander American background should begin testing earlier - at 35 years of age. If the results of your blood test are normal, you should still be tested every 3 years or as often as recommended by your healthcare provider.

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What are complications of prediabetes?

Over time, prediabetes may lead to a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. This can increase your risk of heart disease, eye problems, high blood pressure, nerve problems, stroke, kidney disease and other blood vessel complications. Diabetes can be managed with medications and diet, but it is best if the onset of this condition can be delayed or prevented.

What can I do if I have prediabetes?

Lifestyle changes may help to delay or prevent progression to type 2 diabetes in many people. These changes include weight loss (about 7% of body weight) and at least 150 minutes of regular exercise weekly. For those that smoke, quitting will also improve your health.

The types of dietary changes suggested are a low-carbohydrate diet, consuming low sodium levels less than 1500 mg per day, limiting alcohol to one drink (or less) per day, and cutting out added sugar and unhealthy fats. You may find a dietitian or lifestyle program to be helpful to make these changes.

In some cases, your doctor may prescribe a medication such as metformin to help reduce your blood sugar levels.

Summary

Because prediabetes often doesn't have noticeable symptoms, it is important to have a blood test to check your blood sugar levels. If you have blood sugar levels above the normal range, it is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions for making lifestyle and other changes necessary to reduce the risk of complications from diabetes.

See also:

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