Diabetes Alert Day 2024 - Statistics & Risk Factors | Omada Health

Diabetes Alert Day is March 22, 2024, and it is important to raise awareness to the prevalence and risk factors of developing diabetes. Diabetes awareness starts with understanding the condition, what to watch out for, and educating yourself on the lifestyle changes that can help prevent you from developing type 2 diabetes. 

What Is Prediabetes?

Prediabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be considered diabetes. It is a warning sign that you may be at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes is fairly common - impacting more than 1 in 3 adults in the US1 and nearly half of people over the age of 651. Even more shocking, 81% of those with prediabetes are unaware of it¹, as it is commonly asymptomatic. 

Prediabetes is a serious condition. It can develop into type 2 diabetes which can cause several health complications. Type 2 diabetes can increase your risk of having a heart attack, stroke, kidney issues, nerve damage, and more. To mitigate your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, it is important  to be aware of the risk factors associated with prediabetes and make conscious efforts to lower your risk. 

Early Warning Signs & Risk Factors of Prediabetes

Since symptoms don’t often appear with prediabetes, it’s important to see your healthcare provider regularly to monitor and screen your blood sugar. Risk factors include:

• Age -  The older you are, the higher your risk of developing prediabetes. Adults aged 45 or older are more likely to develop it compared to those 18-44.² 

• Family History - If type 2 diabetes runs in your family, you also may be at risk. If your parents or siblings are diabetic, you have a higher chance of developing prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.²  

• Lifestyle - If you are overweight and physically inactive, or you have an unhealthy diet, your lifestyle may be a major risk factor for developing prediabetes.²

Though symptoms don’t always appear, there are some signs that may indicate an increased likelihood of having prediabetes. Unexpected weight changes, fatigue, and increased thirst and urination can all be the result of high blood sugar levels.³ However these symptoms may be caused by other conditions, so the best way to be sure is to have routine healthcare checkups to monitor your blood sugar levels.

How To Lower Your Risk of Prediabetes

The best way to lower your risk or even reverse prediabetes is by making healthy lifestyle choices. 

• Dietary choices, like eating more vegetables and cutting out sugars, can help to lower your blood sugar.⁴

• Regular, moderate exercise can help improve your body’s insulin sensitivity and lower your blood sugar levels.

• Losing excess weight can lower your body’s insulin resistance, lowering your risk of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.⁴

In addition to monitoring your blood sugar, seeing your doctor routinely can provide you with the education and resources you need to be successful in making lifestyle changes. When it comes to managing your risk of prediabetes, knowing what you need to do is only half the battle. Educating yourself, your family and friends, and finding resources to help you along the way is an important part of the process. 

How Omada Helps You Prevent Diabetes

Lifestyle changes aren’t easy, and that’s why Omada is here to support you. You’ll receive support from a dedicated care team, including a health coach, a personalized care plan tailored to your lifestyle and a smart scale and app that helps you to easily track your progress at any time. If eligible through your employer or health plan, Omada is $0 cost to you. Find out if you’re eligible for Omada and get started today! 

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