Prediabetes Risk Test
Do you think you are at risk of prediabetes?
Make sure to talk to your doctor about your test results.
What is Prediabetes
Prediabetes is when blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not yet diabetic. Prediabetes has no clear warnings. Without a test, you could have it and not even know. Almost all people who get diabetes (high blood sugar) had prediabetes first. But, having prediabetes does not mean you will develop high blood sugar.
Are you at risk?
Prediabetes puts you at greater risk of getting type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Health Plan of San Joaquin/Mountain Valley Health Plan (“Health Plan”) is proud to offer the National Diabetes Prevention Program online along with Inspiring Communities.
See Inspiring Communities webpage: https://www.inspiringcommunities.org/pre-diabetes/
If you would like to learn more about our National Diabetes Prevention Program or would like to self-refer, please call Health Plan’s Health Education at: 209-942-6356, or healtheducation@hpsj.com.
You may be at risk for prediabetes
Prediabetes is often not seen until other health problems show up. Talk to your doctor about getting your blood sugar tested if:
- You are 45 years or older
- Have a family history of type 2 diabetes
- You are physically active less than 3 times a week.
- Have had gestational diabetes
Your doctor will have you take one or more of these blood tests to confirm a diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, or Prediabetes:
A1c test – It measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2 or 3 months. An A1c below 5.7% is normal between 5.7 and 6.4% indicates you have prediabetes, and 6.5% or higher indicates you have diabetes.
Glucose tolerance test – It measures your blood sugar before and after you drink a liquid that contains glucose. A blood sugar level of 140mg/dL or lower is considered normal, 140 to 199 mg/dL indicates you have prediabetes, and 200mg/dL or higher indicates you have diabetes. Ask your doctor what test is right for you.
Fasting blood sugar test – It measures your blood sugar after an overnight fast (not eating). A fasting blood sugar level of 99mg/dL or lower is normal, 100 to 125mg/dL indicates you have prediabetes, and 126mg/dL or higher indicates you have diabetes.
Lower your high blood sugar risk
To help prediabetes from turning into type 2 diabetes, you can:
- Healthy eating – Focus on eating what is easy for you to get. Frozen and canned items are great foods to eat and can last longer. If you struggle with knowing what to eat ask your doctor. https://www.eatright.org/food
- Move your body. Doing something for 30 minutes during the week is taking the best step to prevent health issues in the future.
- Limit Tobacco or Nicotine. Using tobacco products or nicotine found in vape pens and others can increase your chances of getting various health issues. If you are ready to limit or stop using these products you can get free help here.
- Manage stress. Find out how to manage your stress. This can help you stay motivated and help you solve problems that can slow your progress. If the stress you are feeling is too much you always have access to therapists and other related experts. Call Health Plan’s Behavioral Health Services. Health Plan links you to supportive, trained counselors. They can help you make a plan to control stress. If you have other mental health conditions, Health Plan can help.
Healthy changes are the best option for treating or reversing prediabetes. Take control!
Questions for your doctor
- How can I stop prediabetes from turning into type 2 diabetes?
- Do I need to take medication?
- I have other health problems. How can I best handle them together?
- How much do I need to work out each week?
- What foods help stabilize my blood sugar levels?
- Can I see a certified diabetes educator?
- Can you suggest any local program for helping with high blood sugar?
Health Plan is here to help!
We have a Diabetes Disease Management (DM) Program for our members. You can get one-on-one help from a nurse, please use the health library 4 digit number “1512” for prediabetes. He or she can send you tips to teach you more about high blood sugar. Remember to ask about resources to help you quit smoking. For information, call Customer Service at 888-936-7526, or TTY/TDD 209-942-6306 (711)
Sources: American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association, National Institute of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Mayo Clinic.
Posted on May 3rd, 2016 and last modified on September 10th, 2024.
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