A condition when a person has difficulty using the insulin produced by the body. This causes blood sugars to be slightly above normal. The CDC estimates more than 1 in 3 Americans have Pre-Diabetes, but 9 out of 10 are not diagnosed. If untreated, 15-30% of people with Pre-Diabetes will develop Type 2 Diabetes within 5 years.
Screening for pre-diabetes
People who should be screened for Pre-Diabetes include those who are overweight and have one or more of the following risk factors:
- Family history of diabetes
- History of gestational diabetes or a baby weighing over 9 pounds
- History of impaired fasting glucose or impaired glucose tolerance
- Are not physically active
- Members of certain ethnic groups (including Asian American, African-American, Hispanic American, and Native American)
- Elevated blood pressure
- Have an HDL cholesterol level (the “good” cholesterol) of 35 mg/dl or lower and/or a triglyceride level of 250 mg/dl or higher
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- Vascular disease
Treatment of pre-diabetes
Research suggests making lifestyle changes is twice as effective as taking medication to prevent Type 2 Diabetes. The results of a large study published in 2001 (the Diabetes Prevention Program) showed modest weight loss and increased physical activity, such as walking 30 minutes a day, can reduce risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 58%.
Get help at the University of Michigan
If you are worried you may have pre-diabetes or be at risk for diabetes, there are several resources at U-M. To be screened for pre-diabetes by a clinician, contact your Primary Care Physician. U-M is participating in the National Diabetes Prevention Program. Learn more by visiting our website or call 734-998-2475, option 2.