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Prediabetes Risk Factors

Prediabetes risks factors are the same as those for type 2 diabetes. They include:

• Being overweight or obese (i.e., BMI of 25 or higher)
• First-degree family history of diabetes
• Being age 45 or older
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Low HDL cholesterol (35 mg/dl; 0.90 mmol/l) and high triglycerides (250 mg/dl; 2.82 mmol/l)
• High blood pressure (consistent reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher)
• History of gestational diabetes or gave birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds
• Belonging to one of the following ethnic populations: African Americans African Americans, Native American Indians, Latinos, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders
• Having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Having a history of vascular disease

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) uses screening recommendations for prediabetes that are based on the current guidelines for type 2 diabetes screening. Testing is recommended for men and women 45 years of age and older, especially those with a body mass index at or above 25. Individuals younger than 45 should also be screened if they have a BMI of 25 or more and additional risk factors (as listed above).

Reviewed by Francine Kaufman, M.D., 04/08