Prediabetes: The Warning Sign Millions of Indians Are Ignoring

On World Diabetes Day, observed on November 14, the focus on ‘Early Action on Diabetes’ brings attention to a condition that often goes unnoticed – prediabetes. Identifying it early and making timely lifestyle changes can help prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes does not develop overnight. In many people, blood sugar levels begin rising several years before they are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. This stage, known as prediabetes, is often overlooked, even though it provides an opportunity to take action before the condition progresses.

This is particularly important in India, where diabetes is becoming an increasing health concern. Many people may already have higher-than-normal blood sugar levels without being aware of it. Since prediabetes usually does not cause noticeable symptoms, it can go undetected for years.

So, what exactly is prediabetes?

Prediabetes is a condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as Type 2 diabetes. It indicates that the body is not using insulin effectively. Insulin is the hormone that helps glucose enter the body's cells, where it is used for energy. When cells do not respond properly to insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance develops, causing blood sugar levels to rise.

A person with prediabetes may feel perfectly healthy and have no obvious symptoms. This is why regular blood sugar testing is important, especially for those with risk factors.

A glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) level between 5.7% and 6.4%, fasting blood glucose between 100 and 125 mg/dL, or blood glucose values between 140 and 199 mg/dL two hours after a 75-gram glucose load fall within the prediabetes range. These test results help identify people who need medical attention and lifestyle changes.

Why are Indians increasingly at risk?

There are several reasons behind the growing risk of prediabetes in India. Genetic susceptibility, abdominal obesity, lack of physical activity and unhealthy eating habits all play a role. Changing lifestyles have added to the problem. Long working hours, sitting for extended periods, irregular meal timings and frequent consumption of processed foods and sugary drinks have become common.

Another important point is that diabetes risk is not limited to people who are overweight. Even those who appear lean or have a seemingly healthy body weight can develop insulin resistance and prediabetes. Excess abdominal fat and a family history of diabetes can further increase the risk. Therefore, a person's appearance or body weight alone cannot determine their metabolic health.

What happens if prediabetes is ignored?

Having prediabetes does not mean that a person will definitely develop diabetes. However, ignoring the condition and continuing with unhealthy lifestyle habits can increase the chances of progressing to Type 2 diabetes.

The risk is not limited to blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance and related metabolic changes can also increase the risk of cardiovascular problems. If diabetes develops and remains uncontrolled, it can gradually affect important organs such as the heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves. The good news is that this progression can often be prevented or delayed through timely intervention.

Can prediabetes be reversed?

Yes, in many cases, blood sugar levels can return to the normal range with appropriate lifestyle changes. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight and getting adequate sleep are important. For individuals who are overweight, even a 5–7% reduction in body weight can make a meaningful difference in reducing the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

The message of World Diabetes Day 2026, ‘Early Action on Diabetes’, is particularly relevant here. People should not wait until symptoms appear or blood sugar levels reach the diabetic range before taking their health seriously. A simple blood test, followed by appropriate medical advice and practical lifestyle changes, can help prevent future health complications. When it comes to diabetes, acting early is always better than waiting for the condition to develop.

Dr. Pavan Kumar Uppula Consultant Endocrinology & Diabetology STAR Hospitals, Nanakramguda