Third of US unknowingly battles pre-diabetes, warns University of Washington Medicine

Tri-Cities Wash. — According to the CDC, one in three Americans, that's about 98-million people have pre-diabetes. Doctors from the University of Washington School of Medicine say many don't even know.

Dr. Subbu Trikudanathan, Medical Director, UW Medicine Diabetes Institute, says. "There is increasing weight in our populations, and then so many environmental influences: access to healthy food, more processed food, food deserts, access to healthcare, lifestyle. And all that has changed, urbanization, which have all contributed to the increasing prevalence of prediabetes."

Doctors say Pre-Diabetes is when blood sugars are higher than normal, but not high enough to be considered type 2 Diabetes.

While there can be subtle signs, we're told Pre-Diabetes is vastly silent. And as it can develop at any age, doctors say it's vital to be regularly screened.

Doctors say around 70% of people with pre-diabetes will end up developing full on diabetes. They say a diagnosis isn't inevitable, they tell us becoming healthy doesn't start with large strides.

"I think lifestyle changes – just small, realistic steps that you're adding. Focusing on nutritional changes, eating a more balanced diet, more movement, incorporating more activity around your life, and good sleep hygiene. All this is going to help." says, dr. Trikudanathan.

You can read more about future research, and even find tips to help with healthy lifestyle changes from UW's School of Medicine below.