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Prediabetes

Published: August 5, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A condition characterized by blood sugar levels higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes.

Quick summary

Prediabetes is a serious health condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal, indicating a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
R73.0
ICD-11
MA00.0
Body system
metabolic
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Fatigue or weight changes

(metabolic)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Increased thirst (polydipsia)

(metabolic)

Frequent urination (polyuria)

(metabolic)

Fatigue

(metabolic)

Blurred vision

(metabolic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Intensive Lifestyle Intervention Program

Structured program combining dietary modification with regular physical activity to achieve and maintain 5-7% body weight reduction. Evidence-based intervention that has demonstrated significant reduction in progression to type 2 diabetes.

lifestyle
2

Exercise prescription and weight management

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
3

Carbohydrate-Managed Nutrition Plan

Implementation of a balanced diet with controlled carbohydrate intake, emphasizing complex carbohydrates with low glycemic index. Emphasis on fiber-rich foods and consistent meal timing to optimize glucose metabolism.

dietary

Additional treatment options

Glycemic Parameter Surveillance

Regular monitoring of hemoglobin A1c and fasting glucose levels to track glycemic trends. Self-monitoring of blood glucose may be recommended for selected patients to understand individual response to diet and activity.

monitoring

Supervised Exercise Program

Structured physical activity program typically including 150 minutes weekly of moderate aerobic exercise combined with resistance training. Exercise improves insulin sensitivity and supports weight management goals.

physical_therapy

Pharmacological Prevention Therapy

Consideration of medication therapy for patients at high risk or those who do not respond adequately to lifestyle modifications. Pharmacological agents may be considered to improve insulin sensitivity and delay disease progression.

medication

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Prediabetes?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

American Diabetes Association. Standards of Care in Diabetes - 2023. Diabetes Care. 2023;46(Suppl 1):S1-S291.

guideline2023
2

Tabak AG, Herder C, Rathmann W, et al. Prediabetes: A high-risk state for diabetes development. Lancet. 2012;379(9833):2279-2290.

review2012
3

Gillett MJ, Royle PJ, Thompson JF, et al. Interventions for prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus in subjects with pre-diabetes: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2020;22(8):1333-1344.

meta_analysis2020
4

Knowler WC, Barrett-Connor E, Fowler SE, et al. Reduction in the incidence of type 2 diabetes with lifestyle intervention or metformin. N Engl J Med. 2002;346(6):393-403.

clinical_trial2002

Risk factors

Factors that raise the chance of developing this condition. Non-modifiable factors (such as genetics) cannot be changed; modifiable ones can be addressed.

Obesity or being overweight
Physical inactivity
Family history of type 2 diabetes
History of gestational diabetes
High blood pressure or abnormal cholesterol levels

When to seek medical help

Consult a healthcare provider if you have risk factors or if you notice symptoms such as increased thirst, urination, or fatigue.

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Prediabetes. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between prediabetes and diabetes?
Can prediabetes be reversed?
Is prediabetes the same as insulin resistance?
How often should I get tested for prediabetes?
What are the most effective lifestyle changes for managing prediabetes?
  1. 1
    Mayo ClinicSource
  2. 2
    American Diabetes AssociationSource
  3. 3
    Centers for Disease Control and PreventionSource
  4. 4
    National Institutes of HealthSource
  5. 5
    World Health OrganizationSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy