Turn Back the Clock: How India’s Research Offers Hope Against Prediabetes Progression

Updated: November 22, 2025 01:51

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A recent Indian study reveals that prediabetes can be reversed if addressed within the first two years, highlighting the critical importance of early detection and intervention. Lifestyle modifications and timely medical care can effectively prevent progression to full-blown diabetes, impacting millions of Indians at risk.

New research from the Indian Institute of Population Sciences (IIPS) and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Mumbai, underscores that prediabetes—a condition affecting over 13 crore Indians—is reversible if addressed early, particularly within the initial two years.

The longitudinal study tracked 1,670 diabetes-free adults over time, finding the highest chance of reversing prediabetes during the first 2 to 3 years after diagnosis. The progression rate to type 2 diabetes is steep, with almost one-third developing diabetes within a decade if untreated. This highlights the urgency for screening and intervention.

Prediabetes is defined by blood sugar levels elevated beyond normal but not high enough for diabetes diagnosis. Risk factors include obesity, physical inactivity, age, and genetics. Early lifestyle changes—such as losing 5-7% body weight, regular walking (150 minutes weekly), improved diet with high fiber and low glycemic foods, better sleep, and stress management—can significantly reverse the condition.

Experts note that while many benefit from lifestyle measures, some individuals may require medication, including GLP-1 therapies, prescribed by specialists to prevent beta-cell exhaustion and long-term complications.

This study is a clarion call for early action to reduce the diabetes burden in India by targeting prediabetes aggressively.

Key Highlights:

- Prediabetes affects over 13 crore people in India, posing a massive health challenge.

- Highest reversal chances lie within the first two years of prediabetes identification.

- Nearly one-third of prediabetic individuals progress to diabetes within 10 years without intervention.

- Lifestyle modifications—weight loss, physical activity, and diet—are critical and effective.

- Some cases may require specialist-prescribed medications, including GLP-1 therapies.

- Early detection through screening can prevent serious complications like heart disease and stroke.

Source: Indian Institute of Population Sciences, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, NSE Circular.

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