Prediabetes is a health condition where your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be called diabetes. It is a serious warning sign. Without changes, many people with prediabetes will develop Type 2 diabetes within a few years. The good news is that prediabetes can be reversed with healthy habits and support.
What Causes Prediabetes?
There are several risk factors that can increase your chances of developing prediabetes:
- Being overweight
- Not getting enough physical activity
- Having a parent or sibling with diabetes
- Being over the age of 45
- Having had diabetes during pregnancy (Gestational diabetes)
- Having high blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Prediabetes Can Happen to Anyone – But Some People Are at Higher Risk
Prediabetes is very common; more than 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. have it. Anyone can get prediabetes, but some groups of people are more likely to get it than others.
Who’s More at Risk?
- American Indian and Alaska Native people are almost three times more likely to get type 2 diabetes than white people. This is partly because of big changes in their way of life over the years, like losing access to traditional foods and land. In the 1980s, diabetes became a big problem in many Native communities. Tribal leaders worked with Congress to create the Special Diabetes Program for Indians, which helps with diabetes care and prevention. This is where our Health & Wellness Department began.
- People of color also have higher rates of diabetes and prediabetes. About 17 out of every 100 Black adults have it. Hispanic and Latino communities have a diabetes rate of about 15 out of every 100 adults.
- Asian Americans may get diabetes even if they aren’t overweight. That’s why it’s important for them to get tested, even if they look healthy.
- Older adults are more likely to have prediabetes or diabetes. Almost 1 in 3 people over age 65 has diabetes.
- Men are more likely than women to have prediabetes.
How Chapa-De Supports You
At Chapa-De, we are proud to partner with you to meet your health goals. If you have prediabetes or are at risk, we invite you to join our Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP). This year-long program includes:
- Weekly classes for the first 10 weeks
- Classes every two weeks for the next 2 months
- Then, there will be monthly check-ins for 6 months to help you stay on track
We offer tips and support to eat healthier, move more, and manage stress. You’ll also get access to free exercise equipment and a lending library with books and DVDs about nutrition and fitness.
Our next Diabetes Prevention Program starts soon! Any Chapa-De patient aged 18 and over is welcome to join! Call us at (530) 889-3765 to learn more.
You Are Not Alone
Prediabetes is common, but it does not have to lead to diabetes. With the right tools and support, you can make small changes that lead to big results. At Chapa-De, we are here to walk with you every step of the way.
To learn more or to sign up for our Diabetes Prevention Program, call our Health & Wellness Department at (530) 889-3765 or visit our class calendar to see upcoming sessions.
Sources:
- Improving Health in Indian Country | Diabetes | CDC
- National Diabetes Statistics Report | Diabetes | CDC
Chapa-De Indian Health Auburn Grass Valley | Medical Clinic
PASSIONATE PEOPLE. COMPASSIONATE CARE.
Chapa-De provides medical care, dental care, optometry, behavioral health, pharmacy services and much more.
Serving all American Indian, Low Income and Limited Income Community Members
