Prediabetes, often known as borderline diabetes, is a metabolic condition and an escalating global issue that is strongly associated with obesity. If not diagnosed or treated, prediabetes can progress to type 2 diabetes, which, although manageable, is not yet completely reversible.
What is prediabetes?
Prediabetes is defined by blood glucose levels that are elevated above normal but not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes. It is often referred to as the "gray area" between normal blood sugar levels and those indicative of diabetes. In the UK, it is estimated that around 7 million people have prediabetes, placing them at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Prediabetes can be identified as impaired fasting glucose (IFG) when an individual has higher than normal sugar levels after fasting, or as impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) when higher than normal sugar levels are observed after eating.
The rising number of prediabetes cases is a global concern due to its significant implications for future healthcare burdens. In England, the prevalence of prediabetes more than tripled between 2003 and 2011, with 35.3% of adults, or one in every three individuals, being affected.
Learn more about prediabetes
Prediabetes represents a pivotal moment in the onset of diabetes, as it is during this stage that lifestyle choices can significantly alter its course. Prompt and determined action can decelerate or even stop the development of type 2 diabetes
What are the symptoms of prediabetes?
A significant number of individuals have prediabetes without realizing it, as the condition typically progresses without noticeable symptoms. Often, it is only when the symptoms of type 2 diabetes emerge that a person becomes aware of their prediabetic status. Consequently, knowledge of the risk factors is crucial.
What are the risk factors for prediabetes?
You should be tested for prediabetes if you:
- Are overweight or obese
- Have a close relative (parent or sibling) who currently has or has had diabetes
- Have high blood pressure, low HDL (‘good’ cholesterol) or high triglycerides
- Are over the age of 40
- Have given birth to a baby who weighed over 9 pounds
Pre-diabetes can impact individuals of any age, gender, or race, yet certain groups are more genetically susceptible. These groups include:
- Afro-Caribbean
- South Asian
- Native American
Testing for prediabetes
To diagnose type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, a fasting plasma glucose test or an HbA1c test can be utilized.
Prediabetes is indicated by the following results:
- Fasting plasma glucose: 5.5 mmol/L to 6.9 mmol/L
- HbA1c: 42 to 47 mmol/mol (6.0 to 6.4%)
Should your results exceed the prediabetes thresholds, your GP might diagnose you with type 2 diabetes or schedule a subsequent test to confirm the diagnosis. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) may be administered if you exhibit diabetes symptoms yet your HbA1c is below 42 mmol/mol (6.0%).
Upon a prediabetes diagnosis, your doctor is expected to outline necessary measures to reduce the risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes.
Can I stop prediabetes developing into type 2 diabetes?
The encouraging news is that early detection of prediabetes can lead to reversal, thus preventing the progression to type 2 diabetes. Annually in the UK, between 5% and 10% of individuals diagnosed with prediabetes eventually develop type 2 diabetes.
The two principle factors for consideration are:
Implementing these adjustments can normalize blood sugar levels.
Indeed, the Diabetes Prevention Program study recently established that individuals with prediabetes can avert the onset of type 2 diabetes through dietary modifications and enhanced physical activity.
For a tailored and detailed plan, consult your healthcare provider.