Prediabetes Poses Greater Risk for Younger Adults Aged 20–54, New Research Shows

Recent research highlights that prediabetes, characterized by blood sugar levels higher than normal yet not yet diabetic, presents a more significant life-threatening risk for individuals aged 20 to 54 compared to older populations. The study, published in August 2025 in JAMA Network Open, analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which includes health and nutrition information from a representative sample of U.S. adults. Out of 38,093 respondents aged 20 and above, around 26.2% (9,971 individuals) were identified as having prediabetes based on their self-reported diagnosis or a hemoglobin A1c level between 5.7% and 6.4%. Despite an initial association between prediabetes and increased mortality, this link disappeared when accounting for demographics, lifestyle, and other health conditions. However, the study found that in the subgroup aged 20–54, the relationship between prediabetes and mortality remained significant even after adjustments. This suggests that younger adults with prediabetes might face a more aggressive disease progression or be impacted by genetic factors, disparities in healthcare access, or early onset of metabolic issues. Experts emphasize the importance of early screening and targeted prevention efforts in this age group, especially among those with risk factors such as obesity, family history, or socioeconomic challenges. Early detection and intervention could help prevent the progression to diabetes and reduce premature mortality, emphasizing the need for innovative, engaging prevention programs tailored to younger individuals.