Louisiana Department of Health & Hospitals | Bruce Greenstein, Secretary

For Individuals at Risk

What is prediabetes?

Prediabetes is a condition in which individuals have blood glucose levels higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. People with prediabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke (CDC).

Am I at risk?

While diabetes and prediabetes occur in people of all ages and races, some groups have a higher risk for developing the disease than others. Diabetes is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, as well as the aged population. This means they are also at increased risk for developing prediabetes.

There are three different tests your doctor can use to determine whether you have prediabetes:

• The A1C test
• Fasting plasma glucose test (FPG)
• Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)

The blood glucose levels measured after these tests determine whether you have a normal metabolism, or whether you have prediabetes or diabetes.

Take the American Diabetes Association's Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test and find out your risk--Know your score. 

How can I prevent diabetes?

• Eat Right Learn how eating habits can affect your diabetes. My Food Advisor provides thousands of recipes to help you prepare healthy meals. 
• Be Active According to the CDC, physical activity can help you control your blood glucose, weight, and blood pressure, as well as raise your "good" cholesterol and lower your "bad" cholesterol. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity for 5 days a week.