What tools do I need when I have prediabetes?

Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculator

The BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple equation to compare a person's weight with their height. It does not take into account difference in body shape or how much muscle a person has compared to fatty tissue.

The BMI does correlate with the risk of heart disease, many cancers, and even death. Is therefore used by doctors and health professionals to work out "an ideal body weight" to help people on their life journey.

For more information about BMI, watch the video with Dr Sultan on our body mass index tool page.

Haemoglobin (Hb A1c) Calculator

The Hb A1c is blood test that provides a method of monitoring the blood glucose levels of a person with diabetes, over the previous 3 months. It does this by providing an average of what your blood glucose levels are.

The Hb A1c can be used to work out the estimated average glucose (eAG) level using a complex mathematical model. The estimated Average Glucose (eAG) is a way to show patients what their Hb A1c results (shown as a percentage) are using the same units (mg/L or mmol/L) that they're more familiar with when monitoring their blood glucose levels.

For more information about Hb A1c, watch the video with Dr Sultan on our haemoglobin A1c tool page.

We also have more information about the Hb A1c test. Find the articles below:

• What is the Hb A1c test?
• The Hb A1c test to diagnose diabetes
• Hb A1c and the risk of developing complications in type 2 diabetes

What should I do next?

If you experience any symptoms of prediabetes or you have risk factors for developing prediabetes, it is important to get tested for as soon as possible. Some people are at higher risk and need regular testing. If you are 45 years or older or have other risk factors for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, you will require more frequent testing. By diagnosing and treating the prediabetes early, it means you can decrease the risk of developing or delay any further health complications of prediabetes, for example nerve damage, blindness, and heart disease. It is important to know that diagnosing prediabetes should not rely solely on using a Hb A1c test.

Once you learn what your prediabetes status is, or if you already have prediabetes, the next most important step is to become educated. You can join the Personalised 12-week Prediabetes Program to help you learn how to prevent or delay prediabetes. The prediabetes program is personalised and tailored, giving you more of the content that you want. The program also helps you to stay motivated and teaches you what changes you need to make. The first week is free and full of helpful and crucial information.

If you would like to be a part of a supportive program, with easy to understand video content covering all aspects of diabetes, join our Personalised Prediabetes 12-week Program today! Don't forget, when you sign up, you receive the first week free!