Two million Australians are believed to have pre-diabetes. If left untreated, it may develop into type 2 diabetes in 5 to 10 years.
Pre-diabetes is a condition that occurs when your blood glucose level is higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes.
It is caused by insulin resistance – when the body’s insulin is not working effectively.
Pre-diabetes increases the incidence of cardiovascular disease, which can lead to heart attack and stroke.
Risk factors for pre-diabetes
Risk factors for pre-diabetes are similar to those for type 2 diabetes and include:
- Being overweight – especially those who have excess weight around the waistline (that is more than 94cm for men and more than 80cm for women).
- Being physically inactive.
- Having high blood pressure.
- Having high blood lipids (high triglycerides and/or high total cholesterol) or low good cholesterol (HDL-C).
- Having a family history or type 2 diabetes and/or heart disease.
Other people at risk include:
- Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.
- Women who have had diabetes in pregnancy (gestational diabetes) or given birth to a big baby (more than 4.5kg).
- Those from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background.
- Those from certain ethnic backgrounds such as the Pacific Islands, Asia and the Indian sub-continent.
Just diagnosed with pre-diabetes?
Check out our AUS2PREVENT research trial
Not interested in the AUS2PREVENT research trial but need support?
Diabetes SA is always at hand too and you can call our support line on 1300 198 204 or contact us for other great resources to support you live a healthy life.
Talk to one of our health professionals by calling 1300 198 204.
Arrange a face-to-face consultation by calling 1300 198 204.
Become a member of Diabetes SA.
Explore our resources and helpful links for more information.