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5 important facts about prediabetes

Nearly 1 in 3 U.S. adults has prediabetes. That's tens of millions of people. With those kinds of statistics, there's a fair chance you or someone you know could have prediabetes.

These five facts can help you better understand this common condition.

ALMOST EVERYONE WHO DEVELOPS TYPE 2 DIABETES HAD PREDIABETES FIRST

Prediabetes means your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be considered type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes can progress to full-blown diabetes if your blood sugar keeps rising.

MOST PEOPLE WHO HAVE PREDIABETES DON'T KNOW IT

Prediabetes usually doesn't cause symptoms. The only way to know if you have it is to get tested. If you're 45 or older, overweight, don't get enough exercise, or you have a close family member who has type 2 diabetes, ask your doctor if you should be tested.

Learn more about who should be tested for diabetes.

PREDIABETES IS A SERIOUS HEALTH CONDITION

In addition to putting you at risk for type 2 diabetes, prediabetes also raises your risk of heart disease and stroke.

YOU CAN REVERSE PREDIABETES

The key to stopping prediabetes is to control your blood sugar. You can do this by following the lifestyle changes your doctor recommends. These may include losing weight, exercising regularly and eating right.

SMALL CHANGES CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE

Making changes to stop prediabetes might feel overwhelming. You don't have to do it all at once though. Start small and add changes over time. For instance, if you drink a lot of soda, try water with a slice of lemon instead. If you need to exercise more, try taking a short walk on your lunch break. Even small steps like these can add up to better blood sugar and a healthier life overall.

Check your diabetes risk

Answer a few questions to learn about your risk for type 2 diabetes.

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