Pre-Diabetes

• Increased thirst (Polydipsia) - high blood sugar can lead to increased urination, causing dehydration and thirst.  
• Frequent urination (Polyuria) - excess sugar in the urine can draw out extra water, leading to more frequent trips to the bathroom.  
• Fatigue - prediabetes can affect how the body uses glucose for energy, potentially leading to feelings of tiredness.  
• Blurred vision - high blood sugar can cause temporary swelling of the eye's lens, affecting vision. 
• Increased hunger - while not always present, some people with prediabetes may experience increased appetite.  

Less Common Symptoms: 

• Darkened skin patches (Acanthosis Nigricans) - darkened, velvety patches of skin, often in the armpits, neck, or groin, can be a sign.  
• Skin tags - small, fleshy growths, often found in the same areas as the darkened skin.  
• Slow-healing sores - impaired circulation due to high blood sugar can slow down the healing process.  
• Frequent infections - prediabetes can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.  
• Numbness or tingling - nerve damage due to high blood sugar can cause tingling or numbness in the hands or feet. 

If you experience any of these symptoms, please visit your GP. 

• Healthy diet - a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.  

• Regular exercise - at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling.  
• Weight management - losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.  
• Medications - medication is often prescribed for individuals with prediabetes, particularly those with additional risk factors for type 2 diabetes or heart disease. In some cases, other medications like statins or blood pressure medications may be recommended, especially if there are other health concerns.  
• Smoking cessation - smoking can worsen insulin resistance and increase the risk of diabetes complications.  
• Stress management - chronic stress can affect blood sugar levels, so finding healthy ways to manage stress is important.  

The NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme (NDPP) 

The National Diabetes Prevention Programme (NDPP), also known as the Healthier You programme, is available in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and is provided by Living Well Taking Control (LWTC). This free, 9-month lifestyle programme helps people at elevated risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by offering support to improve diet, increase physical activity, and manage weight. Participants can choose between face-to-face peer group sessions or digital 1-to-1 coaching through the Liva app, with remote tailored options available for those with specific needs, according to the program's providers, Liva Healthcare.  

To participate, you must be referred by your doctor or nurse and be at risk but not yet have a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes.

• You are 18 or older 
• You have had a blood test in the last 12–24 months showing: 
• HbA1c between 42–47 mmol/mol (6.0–6.4%), OR 
• Fasting blood glucose between 5.5–6.9 mmol/L 
• You do not already have type 2 diabetes 
• You are not currently pregnant 
• You are physically able to take part in light/moderate activity 

Special case – for women with a history of Gestational Diabetes (GDM) 

• You can self-refer without a blood test 
• You can join after pregnancy if you currently have GDM 

You cannot sign up to the programme if: 

• You already have type 2 diabetes 
• You are pregnant (wait until after birth) 
• You have an active eating disorder 
• You have moderate or severe frailty 
• You had bariatric surgery in the last 2 years 

Diabetes UK offer a dedicated diabetes helpline for all people with diabetes, their family or friends, and people who are worried they might be at risk. 

Call the confidential helpline to talk to their highly trained advisors who have counselling skills and an extensive knowledge of diabetes. They can provide information about the condition, take the time to talk things through and explore emotional, social, psychological or practical difficulties. 

England, Wales and Northern Ireland 

Call: 0345 123 2399, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm 

Email: helpline@diabetes.org.uk