Prediabetes

Pre-diabetes refers to a condition where you have more glucose (sugar) circulating in your blood than is normal but less than would be required for you to be diagnosed with diabetes. This is due to your body being resistant to the effects of insulin, which lowers glucose levels. Left untreated this will lead to diabetes type 2.
Diabetes type 2 is a lifelong condition, which over time will require multiple medications and lifestyle changes to keep glucose levels low. High levels of glucose damage the kidneys, blood vessels, nerves, heart and eyes. This damage can start to occur even during the pre-diabetes stage.
If you are diagnosed with pre-diabetes, it is a good time to take action. It is easier to control your glucose during the pre-diabetes stage than when you have diabetes. Even a small weight loss at this stage can return your glucose levels to normal. We have not yet discovered a medication that is as effective in doing this as diet and exercise changes. WeightWatchers or other similar lifestyle based weight-loss programs can be a huge help in assisting you in this.
For men with pre-diabetes, we are currently running a study to see if testosterone helps in the treatment of pre-diabetes in combination with a WeightWatchers program. Go to the study website for more information.