Prediabetes is diagnosed when fasting glucose or HbA1c sits in an intermediate band, higher than typical but below the diabetes threshold. It signals raised risk of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease, but it is not inevitable that it will progress.
Strong evidence shows that modest weight loss, regular physical activity, reducing sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods, and improving sleep can lower blood sugar and, for many people, bring it back into the normal range. Structured programmes exist in several countries to support these changes.
Because prediabetes usually has no symptoms, it is often found on routine testing. If you have been told you have it, treat it as an opportunity rather than a verdict, and ask your doctor about a follow-up testing schedule and support options.