Minnesota's Prediabetes Population: Prevalence, Characteristics, Behaviors, and Care Practices

Background: Thirty percent of adults have prediabetes and the evidence is clear that moderate weight loss of 5-7% through increased physical activity and healthier eating can delay the 10-year onset of type 2 diabetes in this population.

Objective: To describe the characteristics Minnesota’s adult prediabetes population, their co-morbidities, and health behaviors and care practices.

Methods:  The Minnesota BRFSS is an annual random digit dialing telephone survey to 5,000 adult Minnesotans. Included from 2004 to 2008 were measures on glucose testing, prediabetes awareness, increased physical activity and fruit and vegetable consumption, reduced calorie consumption, participation in weight management programs, and taking medications for prediabetes.

Results: Over 50% of adult Minnesotans had their glucose tested within the past 3 years. Prediabetes awareness increased from 4.5% in 2006 to 5.3% in 2008. More than 75% of cases were diagnosed in the last 5 years. Among Minnesotans with prediabetes, 16% are current smokers, 42% report high blood pressure, 38% high cholesterol, and 7% report already having a heart attack. Among women, 62% and 43% report increased walking and fruit and vegetable consumption, respectively, in the past 12 months, compared to 39% and 31% among men. In the past 12 months, 60% percent report reduced caloric intake, 16% report participating in a weight management program, and 7% report taking medications for prediabetes.

Conclusion: Prediabetes diagnosis is increasing among Minnesotans. Increased healthy behaviors and some participation in weight management programs are occurring in Minnesotan with prediabetes yet room remains for improvement. Emphasis on CVD risk reduction is also essential.