As healthcare providers, we are aware of the risks associated with untreated diabetes including kidney failure, blindness, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis to name a few. Pretty depressing, huh? Well, there is good and bad news. First, the bad news, 13% of all US adults have diabetes and 34.5% meet the criteria for pre-diabetes.

Now some good news! The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) made a recommendation for a more proactive screening recommendation for pre-diabetes and type 2 Diabetes. With moderate certainty, the task force agreed that screening for pre-diabetes and type 2 Diabetes could provide a moderate net benefit.

The USPSTF recommends screening for pre-diabetes and type-2 diabetes in adults aged 35-70 years who have overweight or obesity. If it is determined that the patient is positive, clinicians should refer them to preventive interventions. We all know the preventive interventions, right? Lifestyle changes, making educated, “good” decisions regarding diet and exercise, etc. Sigh, however, interesting, these interventions proved to be more effective at preventing or delaying diabetes than prescribing Metformin! There you have it! What lifestyle changes should you be making to maintain a healthy body? Be hypercritical, examine your lifestyle, but don’t beat yourself up. Take baby steps toward a healthier you! Stay the course, stay well, and stay informed!