The New York State Department of Health has reported a significant increase in prediabetes among adults in the state. On World Diabetes Day, health officials are urging residents to get tested for prediabetes and take steps to prevent its progression to type 2 diabetes.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “For many, prediabetes will develop into type 2 diabetes within five years, increasing the risk of developing complications such as kidney disease, heart disease or even stroke. One in 20 New Yorkers had prediabetes in 2011, in 2023, we see this is one in seven New Yorkers, an alarming increase. Most New Yorkers with prediabetes do not know they have it, so getting screened to understand your risk can save your life. Facing prediabetes with proper action like a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reverse prediabetes and decrease the risk of these further complications.”
Data from the New York State Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Brief on Prediabetes shows that the percentage of adults diagnosed with prediabetes has more than doubled over the past twelve years. This rise is attributed both to an actual increase in cases and improved screening efforts.
The Department noted that many people living with prediabetes and diabetes face health inequities and reside in communities with limited access to health services. Efforts are underway to improve health equity by expanding access to prevention programs through partnerships with local organizations.
Diabetes prevention initiatives include the National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP), which provides lifestyle change programs focused on increasing physical activity and reducing body weight by five to seven percent. These measures have been shown to help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes among those at risk. The National DPP is available as a covered benefit for Medicaid recipients and Medicare members in New York.
For those already diagnosed with diabetes—estimated at 1.7 million New Yorkers—the Department supports programs recognized by the American Diabetes Association (ADA), accredited by the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (ADCES), as well as Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) programs.
DSMES programs offer guidance for anyone living with diabetes, regardless of how long they have had the condition.
On November 14th, landmarks across New York State will be illuminated in blue as part of an effort to raise awareness about diabetes.
