Third of adults in England ‘on cusp’ of Type 2 diabetes

A new study has suggested that a third of adults in England now have pre-diabetes.

The research, published in the British Medical Journal suggests there has been a big rise in prediabetes, which is where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to qualify as Type 2 diabetes.

The authors predict a surge in Type 2 diabetes in the coming years, which would have serious implications for the country.

Barbara Young, Chief Executive of Diabetes UK, said: “This study is further evidence that there is an increasing number of people who are developing prediabetes.

“Having high enough blood glucose levels to be classified as having pre-diabetes leaves people at a significantly increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, which is a lifelong condition that already affects more than 3 million people and can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, amputation and blindness.

“We need to make sure those at high risk are made aware of this so that they can get the advice and support they need to make the lifestyle changes that can help reduce this.  In fact, up to 80 per cent of cases of Type 2 diabetes could be avoided or delayed by making these kinds of changes.

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