Millions of people are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes without knowing it, as it is often dubbed a silent killer. The condition triggers numerous health issues, including heart attacks, strokes, and amputations. But how can you tell if you are on the brink of a diabetes diagnosis?

Dr. David Unwin, a GP in Southport, Merseyside, notes that the prevalence of type 2 diabetes has shifted dramatically in recent years. It is no longer uncommon to see young individuals diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes, emphasizing the importance of early detection and prevention.

Prediabetes is a critical period where blood sugar levels are elevated but full-blown diabetes has not yet developed. It serves as a warning sign that lifestyle changes are necessary to prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Warning Signs of Prediabetes:

• String Test: Central obesity, indicated by excess fat around the waist, can be a risk factor for prediabetes. A simple string test comparing waist circumference to height can help identify this.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness could be a sign of abnormal blood sugar levels, warranting further investigation for prediabetes.
• High Blood Pressure: Individuals diagnosed with high blood pressure are at an increased risk of prediabetes, emphasizing the importance of regular health check-ups.

It is possible to reverse prediabetes through lifestyle modifications. Dr. Unwin highlights the success of a low-carb diet in his practice, where all prediabetes cases were reversed without the need for medication. Weight loss, dietary changes, and regular exercise play a crucial role in preventing the progression to type 2 diabetes.

Other signs of prediabetes include the use of certain medications like steroids, skin changes such as darkened patches, abnormal blood test results, a history of gestational diabetes, and family medical history. Early detection and proactive management are key in combating the diabetes epidemic.