No sugarcoating: Prevalence and associated factors for prediabetes in a community‐dwelling Medicare population

Background: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that \u3e1/3 American adults have prediabetes, of whom 90% are unaware they are at increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Given the toll of diabetes on patient outcomes and healthcare expenditures, increased effort should be focused on identifying those at risk to potentially prevent/delay development of diabetes. methods: In the fall of 2017, fourteen clinics targeting Medicare beneficiaries were held throughout Northern/Central California. Beneficiaries were offered a comprehensive medication review and health screenings/services by supervised pharmacy students. Sociodemographic, medical history, and medication data were recorded during each intervention. For those without self-reported diabetes, the American Diabetes Association risk assessment was performed (score of ≥ 5 indicates prediabetes). Beneficiary characteristics were examined to identify those that were significantly more likely in those with prediabetes. results: A total of 683 beneficiaries without self-reported diabetes completed the risk assessment, with 457 (66.9%) scoring ≥ 5. Beneficiaries with prediabetes had a significantly greater number of chronic conditions and took a greater number of prescription medications than their counterparts. Those with hyperlipidemia, hypertension, obesity, coronary heart disease, and aspirin users were significantly more likely to have prediabetes. In contrast, Asians and those using dietary supplements and vitamins/minerals were significantly less likely to have prediabetes. conclusion: Identification of individuals with prediabetes through use of appropriate screening tools can allow for targeted preventive interventions (e.g., modest weight loss and regular physical activity), which can lower their risk of developing type 2 diabetes