Are you at risk of prediabetes?
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In this article:
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One out of three adults has prediabetes, but 80 percent of them don’t know it, according to the CDC.
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Prediabetes occurs when your blood glucose (sugar) levels fall above normal but below Type 2 diabetes levels.
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Find out if you could be at risk for prediabetes.
One out of three adults — 98 million Americans — has prediabetes, but 80 percent of them don’t know it, according to the CDC. Prediabetes occurs when your blood glucose (sugar) levels fall above normal but below Type 2 diabetes levels.
Risk factors of prediabetes
You may be at risk for prediabetes if you:
- Are 45 or older
- Are overweight
- Have a family history of Type 2 diabetes
- Have high blood pressure
- Have polycystic ovary syndrome
- Participate in physical activity fewer than three times a week
- Had gestational diabetes during pregnancy or gave birth to a baby that weighed more than 9 pounds
Prevent type 2 diabetes
If you have prediabetes, you may be at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes within five years. Type 2 diabetes increases the risk of serious health conditions, including:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Kidney failure
- Blindness
- The loss of toes, feet or legs
The good news is prediabetes can be stopped in its tracks. If your doctor tells you that you have prediabetes, they may recommend that you start by losing weight through a combination of healthy eating and exercise. According to the CDC, making these lifestyle changes can cut your risk of type 2 diabetes in half.
Small lifestyle changes can make a big impact
Not sure where to begin? Here are some great ways to get started:
- Scale back your portions and choose healthy snacks, like fruit or nuts, instead of empty calories like chips or candy.
- Try to do something active every day, even if it’s simply taking a walk through the neighborhood.
- Consider getting a fitness tracker to help monitor your progress and motivate you to keep practicing healthy habits.
Most importantly, talk with your doctor if you think you might have prediabetes. Your doctor will be able to test your glucose levels and help you devise a plan to reverse prediabetes. Providence offers a full range of diabetes care and education services.
Find a doctor
If you are looking for a Providence provider, search for one in our provider directory.
Through Providence ExpressCare Virtual, you can access a full range of health care services from the comfort of your own home. For same day care, check out Providence ExpressCare locations.
Download the Providence app
It’s all in the app: easily stay connected with Providence and your health. With the Providence app, you can schedule appointments, have virtual visits from the comfort of your own home, get health recommendations personalized for you, access your health records and so much more. Learn more and download the app.
Related resources
Healthy eating tips for older adults
