Prediabetes: Early Signs, Risk Factors, and How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes

  Article produced by Dr Siva Sivappriyan, Consultant in Diabetes and Endocrinology

Many people are familiar with type 2 diabetes, but fewer understand the importance of prediabetes — an early warning sign that blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not yet in the diabetic range.

Prediabetes is increasingly common in the UK, but the concern is that many people do not realise they have it until complications begin to develop.

It is a preventable condition, but without sustainable lifestyle changes and early intervention it can progress to diabetes. Early action is key – the likelihood of reversing prediabetes is much higher when it is in its early course. [Diabetes UK]

What is prediabetes?

Prediabetes occurs when blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetic range. It is often linked with weight gain, insulin resistance, fatty liver disease, high cholesterol and increased cardiovascular risk. It is often linked to insulin resistance, where the body becomes less effective at using insulin properly.

Without intervention, many people with prediabetes will go on to develop type 2 diabetes within several years.

Are there symptoms?

One of the challenges with prediabetes is that symptoms are often mild or absent altogether.

However, some people may notice:

• Increased tiredness
• Weight gain around the abdomen
• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Difficulty losing weight
• Cravings for sugary foods

Because the symptoms can be subtle, many cases are usually identified during routine blood testing.
[Diabetes UK]

Why should prediabetes be taken seriously?

Prediabetes is not simply a warning about future diabetes risk. It can already be associated with increased cardiovascular risk, including:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Fatty liver disease
• Increased risk of heart disease and stroke

Research continues to show strong links between metabolic health, obesity and diabetes-related complications

Small changes can make a big difference

One of the most important messages during Diabetes Week is that small lifestyle changes can have a major impact.

For many patients, improving nutrition, increasing physical activity and achieving modest weight loss can significantly improve blood sugar levels. Even losing 5 – 10% of body weight may reduce the risk of progression to type 2 diabetes.

Some patients may benefit from newer diabetes and weight management therapies, particularly where insulin resistance, obesity or cardiovascular risk factors are present. These treatments can support blood sugar control, weight reduction and long-term metabolic health when combined with lifestyle changes and specialist supervision.

“Prediabetes is an opportunity to intervene early. With the right lifestyle changes, monitoring and, in some cases, medical support, many patients can significantly reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes and related cardiovascular complications.” – Dr Sivappriyan

The importance of personalised care

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to diabetes prevention or management.

At LycaHealth Orpington, patients benefit from personalised diabetes assessment and ongoing support tailored to their individual health needs.

Our services include:

• Blood glucose and HbA1c testing
• Medication reviews
• Lifestyle and nutritional advice
• Weight management support
• Cardiovascular risk assessment
• Ongoing diabetes monitoring

Patients also have access to rapid diagnostics and specialist support in a convenient local setting.

When should you consider a diabetes assessment?

You may benefit from assessment if you:

• Have a family history of diabetes
• Are overweight
• Have high blood pressure or cholesterol
• Feel persistently tired
• Have previously been told you are prediabetic
• Have PCOS or a history of gestational diabetes

Early assessment can provide reassurance, identify risks sooner and help prevent future complications.

Supporting better health during Diabetes Week

Diabetes prevention starts with awareness. Understanding the early signs of prediabetes and acting early can help protect your long-term health.

Dr Siva Sivappriyan and the multidisciplinary team at LycaHealth Orpington provide a comprehensive, holistic assessment which allows them to advise on appropriate treatment, and helps patients better understand their condition and make informed decisions about their health.

Learn more about the Diabetes services at LycaHealth Orpington