Prediabetes: Millions of Americans May Not Realize They Have It

More than 115 million adults in the United States have prediabetes, and eight in ten do not know it. Health specialists say spotting it early and making a few lifestyle adjustments can help stop Type 2 diabetes before it starts, particularly in older adults.

Diabetes continues to be a major public health concern in the U.S. Healthcare professionals are urging people to understand their risk factors and take preventive steps before more serious complications develop.

According to figures shared by Signify Health, more than 115 million U.S. adults have prediabetes, and more than 40 million are living with diagnosed or undiagnosed diabetes. Prediabetes means blood sugar is elevated above normal levels, but not yet high enough to be classified as Type 2 diabetes.

Who Faces Higher Risk?

Type 2 diabetes makes up about 90% of all diabetes cases and is diagnosed more often in adults age 45 and older.

Risk factors commonly include a family history of diabetes, lack of physical activity, smoking, and diets heavy in processed foods and added sugars.

Still, having prediabetes does not automatically mean a person will go on to develop Type 2 diabetes.

Small Changes Can Matter

Keeping a healthy weight, eating better, and staying active are among the most effective ways to lower diabetes risk.

Medical recommendations shared by Signify Health say that losing 5% to 10% of body weight and getting at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week can greatly reduce the chance of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Simple habits such as walking every day, eating more vegetables, and cutting back on sugary drinks can gradually become part of a healthier routine. Early screening is important, and healthcare professionals recommend starting prediabetes checks at age 35, especially for people with added risk factors.

For people already living with diabetes, routine monitoring of blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and kidney function is essential to help manage the condition and reduce complications.

Healthcare at Home

Signify Health provides In-Home Health Evaluations for eligible members of participating health plans.

During these visits, qualified healthcare professionals can perform diabetes screenings, review medications, answer questions, and offer personalized guidance on prevention and management.

These evaluations can take up to one hour and are available at no extra cost to eligible members. More information about eligibility is available at HelloSignify.com.

The overall message is straightforward: knowing your blood sugar levels and taking action early can make a meaningful difference in long-term health and quality of life.