The relatively new term is used to describe people at high risk of developing Type2 diabetes, and one of the most-common ways doctors identify them is to test fasting sugar levels.

Anything from 100 to 125 is in the risky zone.

One study has shown that as little as a 7 percent weight loss makes a big difference for the estimated three in 10 adults who are in this group. That study, the Diabetes Prevention Program, also showed that a drug called metformin helped by controlling the amount of glucose in the blood, but not as well as diet and exercise.

Because of that, doctors increasingly are telling people that lifestyle changes can mean the difference between living a healthy life and battling a chronic disease and all its complications.

Locally, the study also served as the impetus for a prevention program operated by the YMCA of Central Ohio.

Janet Godwin said she knew she needed to exercise more when her doctor told her in 2006 that she was prone to developing diabetes. But she wasn't sure what to do about her diet.

"I said, 'Well, what can I do? I don't even know what's right for me to eat,'" said Godwin, 66.

The West Side resident took nutrition classes at the Central Ohio Diabetes Association and read some of its reference materials. She said that made a big difference.

Read the Full Article...