Prediabetes: Small steps today can protect your future health

September 9, 2026 Providence Oregon News Team

Above: Neha Garg, M.D., chair of the Department of Medicine at Providence Medford Medical Center on KOBI-5.

September 2026

Prediabetes affects millions of Americans, often without noticeable symptoms. Health experts say understanding your risk and acting early can help prevent Type 2 diabetes and support long-term wellness.

According to Neha Garg, M.D., chair of the Department of Medicine at Providence Medford Medical Center, prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as Type 2 diabetes.

Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, physical inactivity and family history. Because prediabetes often develops without symptoms, many people do not realize they have it.

Dr. Garg, who leads Providence Medford Medical Center's diabetes program, encourages people to focus on manageable daily habits. “One meal, one walk, one choice at a time,” she says.

She emphasizes that lasting improvements do not have to happen all at once. “Small changes will help prevent diabetes and prediabetes. So, start today and your future self will thank you.”

An A1C blood test is one of the most common ways to check for prediabetes and can help people better understand their health risks.

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KOBI-5Medford doctor raises awareness for prediabetes

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