Prediabetes: Take Control of Your Health

Prediabetes has a big impact on a person’s health. The impact is bigger than most people think, and it’s easy to understand why. After all, the name seems to imply that you’re still okay. But those with prediabetes already have real damage to their heart. The damage is caused by blood sugar levels staying higher than normal.

People with prediabetes are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes in the next five years.

Type 2 diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. It leads to other serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, Alzheimer’s Disease, and blindness. You may even lose your legs, feet, or toes. Diabetes is an expensive disease to treat. People with type 2 diabetes can pay more than twice as much for health care than people without diabetes.

Even when type 2 diabetes is well managed, it can increase your risk of viral and bacterial infections. This includes cold, flu, and COVID-19. Nearly 1 in 10 adults in Wisconsin are diagnosed with diabetes. About 1 in every 3 adults have prediabetes, and 8 out of 10 don’t even know it.

There is good news! You can take control of your health. And you don’t need to figure it out on your own. You can get guidance from a trusted health care provider. Seek support from your loved ones. And join a lifestyle change program in your community. All these steps will give you the tools you need to reverse prediabetes.

You can prevent or reverse prediabetes

The first step is to find out if you’re at risk. Your medical history, daily habits, and other personal factors can increase your risk. This includes age, gender, race, and family history. Once you know you’re at risk, you can take the next step toward better health.

Take the 60-Second Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test

I’m at risk for prediabetes

Only your doctor can diagnose diabetes or prediabetes. But you can lower your risk. If you have any risk factor for prediabetes, don’t wait for symptoms. Take action right away.

• Talk to your doctor about getting a simple blood sugar test.
• Take a hard look at how you eat and add healthier options to your diet. Consider how much you move each week, and get more active.
• Add a few healthy habits to your daily routine. For ideas, read about Prediabetes: What Is It and What Can I Do? (PDF) from the American Diabetes Association.
• If you’re overweight, set a weight loss goal. Talk with your health care provider about a goal that is reasonable and safe for you.
• Find people and programs that will support your progress. Join a diabetes prevention lifestyle change program.
• Read this guide: On Your Way to Preventing Type 2 Diabetes (PDF) from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
• Watch this Imagine YOU Preventing Type 2 video series from CDC to learn how real-life diabetes prevention lifestyle change program participants learned skills to build healthy habits with the support of a trained Lifestyle Coach and other participants who shared the same goals.

Resources from the CDC

• Adding Physical Activity to Your Life
• High Blood Pressure
• On Your Way to Preventing Type 2 Diabetes (PDF)
• Overcoming Barriers to Physical Activity
• Tips to Help Children Maintain a Healthy Weight

Other resources

• Affordable eating from the U.S. Department of Agriculture—Healthy Eating on a Budget
• Healthy eating from the U.S. Department of Agriculture—Start Simple with MyPlate App
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases—Your Game Plan to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes
• Tips for prevention from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases—Preventing Type 2 Diabetes
• Wisconsin Tobacco Quit Line

I have prediabetes

If you were told you have prediabetes, start making decisions to improve your health. Now that you know you have prediabetes, you can make small lifestyle changes that will make a big impact. Simple changes can improve your blood sugar levels and prevent type 2 diabetes.

• Follow your doctor’s advice, eat healthy, and exercise.
• Talk to your friends and family about your condition. Ask for their support.
• Learn about lifestyle change programs. Find out if there are any free or low-cost programs in your community.
• Search online for websites on diabetes prevention and support groups.
• Make a plan to monitor your progress at home and with your health care team.

Resources from the CDC

• Adding Physical Activity to Your Life
• High Blood Pressure
• On Your Way to Preventing Type 2 Diabetes (PDF)
• Overcoming Barriers to Physical Activity
• Tips to Help Children Maintain a Healthy Weight

Other resources

• Affordable eating from the U.S. Department of Agriculture—Healthy Eating on a Budget
• Healthy eating from the U.S. Department of Agriculture—Start Simple with MyPlate App
• Wisconsin Tobacco Quit Line

Join a diabetes prevention lifestyle change program

Changing your everyday habits isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. Making positive changes is important for your health. The National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP) recognized by the CDC is a proven lifestyle change program that can help.

“What is it, exactly?”

The National DPP isn’t a fad diet. No one will hand you a list of big goals then send you on your way. Instead, these lifestyle change programs:

• Feature a year-long, CDC-approved curriculum with lessons and resources to help you make manageable, healthy changes.
• Are led by a trained lifestyle coach in your community to help you learn new skills and keep you motivated.
• Offer a supportive group of people who are also committed to building healthier habits.

“Why should I join?”

Studies have shown that structured lifestyle change programs are effective. Participants with prediabetes can cut their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 58%. Risk can be lowered as much as 71% if you’re over age 60. In addition to reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, these lifestyle change programs can:

• Reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Improve your overall health.
• Boost your energy level and reduce stress.

“How do I get started?”

There are several ways you can find the lifestyle change program that’s right for you.

• Choose the type of program that works best for you. Programs are available in person, online, or through distance learning.
• Ask your employer if the company’s health insurance provides a lifestyle change program.
• Find out if a referral is needed for the program you choose.

Find a National Diabetes Prevention Program near you

Many organizations in Wisconsin offer free or low-cost diabetes prevention programs recognized by the CDC. Programs are available in person, online, or through distance learning.

Want to participate? You can join on your own or ask your doctor to refer you. Some employers and health insurance plans may support your participation, too.

Find a location near you

We’re here to help!

With a little guidance and support, you can reverse or prevent prediabetes. You can build healthy habits that last a lifetime. Don’t wait. We’re here to help you access all the information you need. 

If you have trouble finding a program or other helpful tools, email us at DHSChronicDiseasePrevention@dhs.wisconsin.gov

Explore your options

Now that you’ve learned more about reversing prediabetes, keep exploring. Learn about the dangerous myths that make prediabetes seem less harmful than it is. Follow the links below to access educational resources, and more.

Understanding Prediabetes

Resources for Providers

Resources for Employers

Resources for Partners