CDC Reports Nearly One-Third of U.S. Youth Have Prediabetes Amid Data Transparency Concerns

A recent federal study indicates a significant rise in prediabetes among American adolescents, prompting concerns about youth health and raising questions about the transparency of the data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to 2023 data, nearly 33% of U.S. teens aged 12 to 17 are affected by prediabetes, roughly doubling the earlier estimate of 1 in 5 children. Prediabetes is a condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels that increase the risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and other metabolic disorders.

The CDC's new analysis is based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and applies updated science and methodology. This has resulted in an estimated 8.4 million adolescents affected—up from previous assessments. However, experts express skepticism due to the limited information released, as the CDC provided only a brief online summary without sharing raw data or detailed methodological explanations. This lack of transparency raises concerns about the accuracy of these figures in the context of recent staff reductions within the agency.

Critics, including researchers from Stanford University and the University of Washington, highlight that the increase from previous estimates is not statistically significant, emphasizing the need for peer-reviewed publication. Dr. Steven Kahn and other specialists point out that without access to raw data, it is challenging to interpret or validate these findings properly.

Despite these concerns, the new data align with observed trends of increasing obesity and high blood sugar levels among youth, which are known risk factors for future diabetes. The American Diabetes Association recommends screening children starting at age 10, especially those with risk factors like obesity, while advocating for lifestyle interventions focusing on healthy diet and physical activity to mitigate these risks.

Ultimately, the rise in prediabetes prevalence underscores an urgent need for action in preventive health measures for youth. Still, the scientific community calls for greater transparency and rigor in future research to ensure accurate assessment and effective intervention.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-cdc-youth-prediabetes-experts-scant.html