Prediabetes: signs, risks and when to get checked in Kenya
By My Wellness Health, Editorial team · Reviewed by the My Wellness Health clinical team on 7 Oct 2026 · Updated 7 Oct 2026
Prediabetes means blood sugar is higher than normal but not yet in the diabetes range. It is the stage where lifestyle changes can most often bring sugar levels back to normal. When signs do appear, they can include some people notice tiredness or more thirst than usual; darker, thicker skin in the neck or armpits (acanthosis nigricans) can be a clue; and it is found with a blood test, not by how you feel.
Blood sugar above normal but below diabetes. Kenya STEPwise survey 2015.
| Who should get checked | How it is checked | How we help | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| An HbA1c result: 5.7% to 6.4% is the prediabetes range | HbA1c or fasting blood sugar | Diabetes risk assessment | Hypertension and diabetes assessment, KES 200 |
Prediabetes: signs, risks and when to get checked in Kenya: your questions answered
Frequently asked questions
What is prediabetes?
Prediabetes means blood sugar is higher than normal but not yet in the diabetes range. It is the stage where lifestyle changes can most often bring sugar levels back to normal.
What are the signs of prediabetes?
Usually no symptoms at all. Some people notice tiredness or more thirst than usual. Darker, thicker skin in the neck or armpits (acanthosis nigricans) can be a clue. It is found with a blood test, not by how you feel.
Who is most at risk?
Overweight, especially a large waist. A family history of diabetes. Age 35 or older. Little physical activity. High blood pressure. Diabetes in a past pregnancy. Polycystic ovary syndrome.
When should I see a doctor?
Prediabetes itself is not an emergency, but it is the best time to act: type 2 diabetes can often be delayed or prevented.
How is prediabetes checked?
With HbA1c or fasting blood sugar. An HbA1c result: 5.7% to 6.4% is the prediabetes range.
What happens after a high-risk result?
A confirmatory blood test. A plan for weight, food and activity. A blood pressure and cholesterol check. A repeat test in a year, or sooner if your clinician advises. A risk result is not a diagnosis.
What should I ask my doctor?
How far am I from the diabetes range? How much weight would make a difference for me? Do I need medicine, or are lifestyle changes enough for now? When should I test again?
What does it cost?
An HbA1c or fasting sugar test is a simple blood test offered at most laboratories.
How can My Wellness Health help?
The diabetes risk assessment checks the factors behind prediabetes, including weight, waist, family history, activity and past sugar results, and tells you whether a fasting sugar or HbA1c test is due. It costs KES 200. A care navigator calls you back within 2 hours (Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm) to book what you need at a facility that suits your budget and location.
This page is health information to help you understand risks and next steps. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a qualified clinician. My Wellness Health is not a diagnostic service: we help you understand your risk and connect you with the right screening and care. In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 999 or 112. If you are thinking of harming yourself, call Befrienders Kenya on +254 722 178 177 or the Kenya Red Cross toll-free line 1199.