What is prediabetes and why does it matter?

Prediabetes is the name given to the condition when your blood glucose (sugar) levels are above the normal range, but not high enough to be diagnosed as having diabetes.

If your blood glucose level is above the normal range, your risk of developing full-blown type 2 diabetes is increased. 

Why is it important to manage my prediabetes?

Don’t let the “pre” fool you. Prediabetes is a serious health condition. Prediabetes puts you at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

If you go on to develop full-blown type 2 diabetes. the risk of serious health problems increases even more. 

Diabetes affects every major organ in the body. People with diabetes often develop major complications including kidney failure, blindness, and nerve damage, leading to amputation. Having diabetes can also increase your risk of depression. This all reduces quality of life.

The good news -you can reverse prediabetes

Think of prediabetes as a fork in the road. If you ignore it, your risk for type 2 diabetes goes up.

The good news is that many people can reverse prediabetes and reduce their risk with healthy lifestyle changes.  This is a good time to start making these changes.

Losing just 5% of your body weight can significantly reduce your risk. 

Making healthier food choices and being more active are both positive ways to lose weight. There are lots of ways  to do this. Use this app to help you to find what approaches work best for you in

How do I know if I have prediabetes?

Your GP surgery can organise a blood test.  In some parts of Scotland, community pharmacies will also carry out these blood tests.

The most common test is  checking your HbA1c levels. This measures  your average blood sugar levels for the last two to three months. If your HbA1c level is between 42mmol/mol (6%) – 47mmol/mol (6.4%) this means it is higher than normal and you are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.