Could You Have Prediabetes Without Knowing It?

Prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes are among the most common chronic health conditions worldwide, yet many people are unaware they may be at risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than two in five adults in the United States have prediabetes, and most do not know it. Understanding your risk factors and recognizing early warning signs can play a major role in preventing long-term health complications.

What Is Prediabetes?

Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as Type 2 diabetes. Blood sugar, also called glucose, is the body’s main source of energy and is regulated by a hormone called insulin. When the body begins to have trouble using insulin effectively, blood sugar levels can rise.

Prediabetes is important because it often serves as a warning sign. Without intervention, many individuals with prediabetes eventually develop Type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetes Association notes that early detection and lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of progression and, in some cases, return blood sugar levels to a healthier range.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes. Some risks are related to lifestyle, while others are influenced by genetics or medical history.

Common risk factors include the following:

• Being overweight or having obesity
• Being physically inactive
• Having a family history of Type 2 diabetes
• Being age 35 or older
• Having high blood pressure or abnormal cholesterol levels
• Having a history of gestational diabetes during pregnancy
• Having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Are There Symptoms of Prediabetes?

One of the challenges with prediabetes is that it usually does not cause noticeable symptoms. Many people feel completely healthy, which is why screening is so important. However, some individuals may experience subtle signs such as increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue or blurred vision. These symptoms are more commonly associated with diabetes but can occasionally appear earlier.

Because symptoms are often absent, health care providers rely on blood tests to diagnose prediabetes. Common screening tests include the following:

• A1c test, which measures average blood sugar over three months
• Fasting blood glucose test
• Oral glucose tolerance test

Why Early Detection Matters

Prediabetes is not just a warning sign for diabetes. Elevated blood sugar can already begin to affect the body. Research shows that prediabetes is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke and nerve damage over time. Identifying the condition early provides an opportunity to reduce these risks.

The encouraging news is that prediabetes is often reversible. Even modest lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. For many patients, this is a window of opportunity to improve long-term health.

How Can You Lower Your Risk?

Preventing or delaying diabetes usually involves manageable lifestyle adjustments rather than extreme measures. Experts recommend focusing on three key areas: nutrition, physical activity and weight management.

Healthy eating does not require eliminating entire food groups. Instead, patients are encouraged to prioritize whole foods such as vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains and healthy fats while limiting highly processed foods and added sugars.

Physical activity also plays a major role. Regular movement helps the body use insulin more effectively. Recommendations encourage at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, such as brisk walking, cycling or swimming.

Even modest weight loss can make a meaningful difference. Research suggests that losing 5% to 7% of body weight may significantly reduce diabetes risk in individuals with prediabetes.

Sleep and stress management are also gaining recognition as important components of blood sugar control. Poor sleep and chronic stress can disrupt hormone balance and insulin function, potentially increasing diabetes risk.

When Should You Talk to Your Doctor?

Patients should consider discussing screening with their health care provider if they have risk factors or concerns about blood sugar levels. This is especially important for individuals with a family history of diabetes or those who have experienced gestational diabetes.

Routine checkups provide an opportunity to review lab results, discuss risk factors and create personalized prevention plans. Early conversations with health care providers can help patients take proactive steps before blood sugar levels progress to diabetes.

Prediabetes is common, but it is also highly manageable. Increased awareness, routine screening and practical lifestyle changes can help many patients prevent or delay Type 2 diabetes. By understanding risk factors and working closely with health care providers, individuals can take meaningful steps toward protecting their long-term health.