Pre-Diabetes
Pre-diabetes describes a condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal, although not high enough to meet the diagnostic criteria of Type 2 diabetes.
Diagnostic Criteria
Pre-diabetes can have no signs or symptoms. People with pre-diabetes have a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and possible cardiovascular (heart and circulation) disease
If you are at risk of pre-diabetes and Type 2 diabetes, your GP or Healthcare Professional will carry out a blood test called HbA1c which will determine if you are living with diabetes or not. See the numbers below.
Diagnostic Criteria on blood test: HbA1c
- Normal Range – 20-39mmol/mol
- Pre–diabetes – 39-47mmol/mol
- Diabetes -> 48mmol/mol
Without sustained lifestyle changes, including healthy eating, increased activity and losing weight, approximately 5-10% of people with pre-diabetes will go on to develop Type 2 diabetes each year. Prevention is key!
Always ask your GP or Healthcare Professional for your HbA1c result, know your numbers.
Risk factors for pre-diabetes are like those for Type 2 diabetes which are:
Modifiable:
- Being overweight – especially those who have excess weight around the waistline
- Being physically inactive
- Having high cholesterol
- Having high blood pressure
- Smoking
Non-modifiable:
- Having a first degree relative with type 2 diabetes
- Ethnic backgrounds
- Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)*
- Women who have had diabetes in pregnancy (gestational diabetes) or given birth to a big baby (more than 4.5kgs)
For more information on Prediabetes and diabetes prevention programmes see:
