Before we begin: Prediabetes happens when your blood sugar levels are higher than normal.
This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know about prediabetes. We explain it in plain language, step by step, so whether you are a student, a patient, or simply curious, you will come away with a solid understanding.
We cover what it is, why it matters, how it is diagnosed, and what you can do about it. Key facts are called out along the way.
What is prediabetes? Prediabetes means that your blood glucose, or blood sugar, levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be called diabetes. Glucose comes from the foods you eat. Too much glucose in your blood can damage your body over time.
If you have prediabetes, you are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. But if you make some lifestyle changes now, you may be able to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes.
What causes prediabetes? Prediabetes usually happens when your body has a problem with insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps the glucose get into your cells to give them energy. A problem with insulin could be:
Insulin resistance, a condition in which the body can’t use its insulin properly. It makes it hard for your cells to get glucose from your blood. This can cause your blood sugar levels to rise.
Your body can’t make enough insulin to keep your blood sugar levels at a healthy level
Researchers think that being overweight and not getting regular physical activity are major factors in causing prediabetes.
Who is at risk for prediabetes? About 1 out of every 3 adults has prediabetes. It is more common in people who:
Are overweight or have obesity
Are age 45 or older
Have a parent, brother, or sister with diabetes
Are African American, Alaska Native, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander American
Are not physically active
Have health conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol
Have had gestational diabetes (diabetes in pregnancy)
Have a history of heart disease or stroke
Have metabolic syndrome
Have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
What are the symptoms of prediabetes? Most people don’t know they have prediabetes because usually there are no symptoms.
Some people with prediabetes may have darkened skin in the armpit or on the back and sides of the neck. They may also have many small skin growths in those same areas.
How is prediabetes diagnosed? There are a few different blood tests that can diagnose prediabetes. The most common ones are:
Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test, which measures your blood sugar at a single point in time. You need to fast (not eat or drink) for at least 8 hours before the test. The results of the test are given in mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter):
A normal level is 99 or below
Prediabetes is 100 to 125
Type 2 diabetes is 126 and above
A1C test, which measures your average blood sugar over the past 3 months. The results of an A1C test are given as a percentage. The higher the percentage, the higher your blood sugar levels have been.
A normal level is below 5.7%
Prediabetes is between 5.7 to 6.4%
Type 2 diabetes is above 6.5%
If I have prediabetes, will I get diabetes? If you have prediabetes, you may be able to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes:
Losing weight, if you are overweight
Getting regular physical activity
Following a healthy, reduced-calorie eating plan
In some cases, your health care provider may also recommend taking diabetes medicines.
Can prediabetes be prevented? If you are at risk for prediabetes, those same lifestyle changes (losing weight, regular physical activity, and a healthy eating plan) may prevent you from getting it.
NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Related topics: Insulin Resistance.
Categories: Endocrine System, Diabetes Mellitus.
Source: National Institutes of Health — National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
Key Takeaways
Understanding prediabetes is an important part of taking charge of your health. Here is what to remember:
- Know the signs — Recognizing early symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
- Talk to your provider — If you have concerns or a family history of this condition, bring it up at your next checkup.
- Stay informed — Medical knowledge evolves. Keep learning and asking questions.
- You are not alone — Many people deal with this condition. Support groups and educational resources can help.