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Diabetes type 2 symptoms include extreme thirst, hunger and unexplained weight loss. But, what blood sugar level means someone has developed prediabetes, which is a step towards diabetes

type 2? Advice website diabetes.co.uk said a blood sugar reading between 5.5 mmol/L to 6.9 mmol/L after a period of fasting indicates prediabetes. This condition, also called borderline

diabetes, suggests the body is becoming more resistant to the hormone insulin, and having problems absorbing sugar from the bloodstream. “Many people have prediabetes but are completely

unaware of it,” said diabetes.co.uk, “This is because the condition often develops gradually without any warning signs or symptoms.” Blood sugar levels can be tested for signs of prediabetes

using the fasting blood sugar test, according to US-based Mayo Clinic. “A blood sample is taken after you fast for at least eight hours or overnight,” said the Clinic online. A reading of

the amount of sugar in this blood is then taken to diagnose the condition. Blood sugar level tests can be arranged through a GP, the NHS said online. “Your GP will check your urine and

arrange a blood test to check your blood sugar levels,” they added. Having prediabetes “increases” the risk of developing “full-blown diabetes”, said the NHS. The condition, however, has few

symptoms. The first warning signs tend to appear when someone has developed diabetes type 2. Healthline, a medical website, described prediabetes as a “silent” condition. “Getting regular

wellness checkups is important for early detection,” they said. “If you think you might have borderline diabetes, discuss your concerns with your doctor.” People more at risk of developing

the condition include those who are overweight, inactive or have family history of the problem. High blood pressure and cholesterol may also make someone more at risk of prediabetes. “Having

prediabetes doesn’t definitely mean you’ll develop diabetes,” continued Healthline. “It’s a warning of what could lie ahead, however. “People with prediabetes have a five to 15 times higher

risk for diabetes type 2 than someone with normal blood sugar levels.”