What is Prediabetes?

Prediabetes occurs when your body’s insulin response becomes impaired.

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels by allowing sugar (glucose) to enter cells to be used for energy.

In prediabetes, your cells start to respond less effectively to insulin, leading to an increase in blood sugar levels.

It is a common condition, affecting millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, many people with prediabetes are unaware they have it.

Several factors increase the risk of developing prediabetes, including:

• Age. The risk increases as you get older, especially after age 45.
• Weight. Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor.
• Family history. Having a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes increases your risk.
• Physical inactivity. A sedentary lifestyle contributes to weight gain and insulin resistance.
• Diet. Consuming a diet high in refined sugars and low in fibre can lead to weight gain and higher blood sugar levels.
• Ethnicity. Certain ethnic groups are at higher risk, including people from Black African, African Caribbean and South Asian (Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi) backgrounds.
• Medical history. Conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are associated with an increased risk of prediabetes.

Prediabetes often has no clear symptoms, which is why it’s frequently undiagnosed. However, some people may experience:

• Increased thirst. A constant feeling of thirst can be an early sign.
• Frequent urination. A need to urinate more often than usual.
• Fatigue. Feeling unusually tired or lethargic.
• Blurred vision. Changes in vision can occur due to high blood sugar levels.

Because these symptoms can be subtle or attributed to other causes, regular screening is important, especially if you have risk factors for prediabetes.

Prediabetes is typically diagnosed through blood tests, which measure your blood sugar levels. The most common tests include:

• Fasting Plasma Glucose test (FPG). This measures your blood sugar after an overnight fast. A result between 100 and 125 mg/dL indicates prediabetes.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance test (OGTT). Measures blood sugar before and after drinking a sugary solution. A two-hour blood sugar level between 140 and 199 mg/dL indicates prediabetes.
• Haemoglobin A1c Test. Provides an average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. An A1c level between 5.7% and 6.4% indicates prediabetes.

If left untreated, prediabetes can progress to type 2 diabetes, which has serious health consequences. These include:

• Heart disease. Increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Kidney disease. Potential damage to the kidneys over time.
• Nerve damage. Can lead to neuropathy, causing pain or loss of sensation in extremities.
• Eye damage. Risk of diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to blindness.

In addition to these long-term risks, having prediabetes increases the likelihood of developing metabolic syndrome, which includes conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and abdominal obesity, further elevating the risk of heart disease.

The good news is that prediabetes can often be reversed or managed effectively with lifestyle changes. Key strategies include:

• Healthy eating. Adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit refined sugars and processed foods.
• Regular physical activity. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as walking, cycling, or swimming.
• Weight loss. Losing even a small amount of weight (5-10% of your body weight) can significantly improve blood sugar levels.Furthermore, losing even a small amount of weight can reduce your blood pressure. This is also a key component of reducing your risk of heart disease.
  
• Regular monitoring. Keep track of your blood sugar levels and have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider.
• Medication. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medication to help manage blood sugar levels.

Prediabetes is a critical health condition that serves as a warning sign for more serious health issues like type 2 diabetes.

By understanding the risk factors, recognising the symptoms, and making proactive lifestyle changes, you can manage and potentially reverse prediabetes.

If you suspect you might have prediabetes or are at risk, seek professional medical advice for appropriate testing and guidance.

Early intervention can make a significant difference in preventing the progression to diabetes and improving your overall health.

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Medic Spot Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. In the event of an emergency, please call 999 for immediate assistance.

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