What are the main signs and symptoms of prediabetes?

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    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    There are usually no symptoms associated with prediabetes, but people with overweight or obesity and who have risk factors such as a family history of diabetes or high blood pressure should consider testing. Universal screening is recommended for adults ages 35 and older, and follow-up screenings are based on initial results and the presence of symptoms or additional risk factors.

    Prediabetes is an asymptomatic condition. Signs, or indications that an individual should undergo testing to determine whether they have prediabetes, include overweight or obesity in combination with at least one of the following risk factors: family history of diabetes, high-risk race/ethnicity (i.e., Black, Latino/Hispanic, Native American, Asian American, Pacific Islander), history of gestational diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, high blood pressure, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, or elevated triglycerides.[1][2] Universal screening irrespective of the presence of risk factors is recommended for adults at least 35 years old. If initial screening results meet the criteria for prediabetes, it is recommended to repeat screenings yearly. If the results are normal, it is recommended to repeat screenings at least every three years, or sooner if symptoms of diabetes (e.g., excessive thirst) or other risk factors (e.g., hypertension) develop. [1]

    What are the main signs and symptoms of prediabetes? - Examine