Community urged for a greater focus on pre-diabetes
Dr Kathryn Williams, an endocrinology specialist at Nepean Hospital, is urging locals to proactively screen for pre-diabetes and take early steps to prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes by making lifestyle changes.
With type 2 diabetes rates increasing across Australia, there is a growing focus on identification and education around risk factors. Kathryn recommends speaking with your GP about a simple blood test to find out your risk of developing diabetes.
“A simple and easy way to assess your risk for developing diabetes is to take a survey on the Diabetes Australia website, or your GP can guide you through it. If you have intermediate or high risk, it’s essential to then ask your GP to organise a blood test for HbA1c or glucose levels.”
Pre-diabetes is surprisingly common, affecting one in six Australian adults. Its presence significantly increases the risk of developing full-blown diabetes, however, Kathryn stresses that this is not an inevitable outcome.
“If intervention is done early, we can possibly prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes.”
For most people, this involves improving nutrition and increasing physical activity. In some cases, your doctor may also recommend medication to prevent pre-diabetes from progressing.
“A healthy diet, regular physical activity, and even losing just a few kilograms of weight can reverse pre-diabetes. Getting your sleep right, reducing stress, and, where relevant, reducing or stopping smoking and excessive alcohol intake are also vital components of a comprehensive health plan.”
As a starting point, Kathryn recommends talking to your GP about accessing a healthcare plan and getting a referral to a dietitian, exercise physiologist/physiotherapist or psychologist is a good start.
“Working with people who have pre-diabetes and diabetes in its early stages means that you can have discussions about how to make people healthy, and not always focus on diseases and disability.”
“It is a privilege to support and educate patients on way to maintain good health for life, potentially influencing other family members at the same time.”
“Identifying your risk for type 2 diabetes is a powerful first step towards a healthier future. There are tools available to empower you to take control."
Pre-diabetes is a major risk factor for the development of diabetes and should always be addressed in consultation with your GP, dietitian and other clinicians.
Access the Type 2 diabetes risk calculator: https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/risk-calculator/
National Diabetes Week runs from 13 - 19 July 2025 and this year we're focusing on prevention, because it matters at every stage of the journey.