Type 2 diabetes develops through a combination of genetic susceptibility and modifiable factors. People with prediabetes have blood glucose above the normal range but not yet in the diabetes range. This is an important opportunity for intervention.
Small changes can be clinically meaningful
Structured lifestyle programmes have shown that modest weight loss in people who are overweight, healthier eating and increased physical activity can substantially reduce progression to type 2 diabetes. The aim is not a temporary “diabetes diet” but a durable shift in habits.
Know your individual risk
Risk is higher with family history, overweight or central obesity, previous gestational diabetes, some ethnic backgrounds, physical inactivity and certain medical conditions. Blood testing is the only way to identify prediabetes reliably; symptoms are often absent.
Ask about glucose or HbA1c testing if you have risk factors, previous gestational diabetes, unexplained thirst or urination, recurrent infections or unexplained weight loss.
This article is general health information and does not replace an individual medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment plan.