The New York State Department of Health has reported an increase in prediabetes among adults in the state. The announcement comes as part of World Diabetes Day, with officials urging residents to get tested for prediabetes and take steps to prevent its progression to type 2 diabetes.
“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,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. “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.”
According to the recently released Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Brief on Prediabetes from the Department, the proportion 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 people living with prediabetes and diabetes often face health inequities and reside in communities with limited access to healthcare services. To address this issue, officials are working to advance health equity by supporting organizations that provide prevention and management programs where they are most needed.
Diabetes prevention efforts include collaboration with community-based organizations, pharmacies, and local and federal agencies through initiatives like the National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP). This program provides lifestyle change support focused on increased physical activity and modest weight loss—measures shown to reduce or delay type 2 diabetes onset among those at risk.
For individuals covered by Medicaid or Medicare in New York State, participation in National DPP lifestyle change programs is included as a benefit.
An estimated 1.7 million adults (10.6 percent) across New York have been diagnosed with diabetes. The Department continues to promote resources such as ADA-recognized programs and Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES), which are designed for both newly diagnosed individuals and those who have managed diabetes for years.
To raise awareness about diabetes, several landmarks throughout New York will be illuminated blue on November 14.
