Health Tip: Risk Factors for Prediabetes

(HealthDay News) — Prediabetes is characterized by elevated blood sugar that’s not high enough to represent type 2 diabetes. But it does mean you’re more likely than the average person to progress to full-blown diabetes.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) says risk factors for prediabetes include:

  • A history of diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes)
  • A family history of diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Advancing age
  • Inactivity
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Unhealthy diet
  • Smoking

Progression to full-blown diabetes isn’t inevitable, the ADA says, suggesting you can lessen your risk by exercising regularly, quitting smoking and losing any extra weight.