Back to all articles
Health

Diabetes Prevention: Early Signs You Should Never Ignore

05 February 2026 · 1 min read · Reviewed by our medical team

Type 2 diabetes affects over 400 million people worldwide -- and alarmingly, about 1 in 3 adults with pre-diabetes do not know they have it. The good news: pre-diabetes is almost entirely reversible with the right interventions.

Prediabetes: What to Watch For

Fasting blood glucose between 100–125 mg/dL, or an HbA1c of 5.7–6.4%, indicates prediabetes. Symptoms are often absent, which is why testing is essential. Warning signs when they do appear include:

  • Increased thirst and frequent urination
  • Unexplained fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing wounds
  • Tingling or numbness in hands and feet

Prevention That Works

The landmark Diabetes Prevention Program study showed that modest lifestyle changes — losing just 5–7% of body weight and walking 150 minutes per week — reduced the risk of developing full Type 2 diabetes by 58% in people with prediabetes. This is more effective than medication alone.

Key strategies: replace refined carbohydrates with fibre-rich whole grains, eliminate sugary drinks, prioritise protein at every meal, and maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Annual blood glucose testing at FMRC is fast, affordable, and could be the most important test you ever take.

Reviewed by our medical team

All FMRC articles are reviewed for accuracy by board-certified clinicians at the Family Medical Regional Centre, Batumi.

Have a health concern? Talk to a specialist.

Most appointments at FMRC are available within 48 hours.

Book Appointment