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A new federal estimate from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that nearly one in three U.S. adolescents aged 12 to 17 had prediabetes in 2023, a significant increase from previous estimates that suggested about one in five teens were affected. The data translates to approximately 8.4 million American youths, or 32.7% of the adolescent population, now living with this condition.
is characterized by blood sugar levels that are higher than normal but not high enough for a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis. This condition is a critical warning sign, as it sharply increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, as well as heart disease, stroke, and other metabolic disorders later in life. Experts stress that developing these chronic diseases early can lead to worse health outcomes over a lifetime.
Dr. Christopher Holliday, director of the CDC’s Division of Diabetes Translation, described the findings as a “wake-up call” and warned that Type 2 diabetes poses a “significant threat” to young people’s health. He emphasized that simple lifestyle changes—such as healthy eating and regular physical activity—can make a substantial difference in preventing or delaying the onset of Type 2 diabetes.
Concerns Over Data Transparency and Methodology
While the rise in prediabetes among teens is undisputedly concerning, the CDC’s release of the data has drawn criticism from experts. The agency published only a brief 600-word online summary of its findings, without releasing the raw data or a peer-reviewed paper detailing the methodology behind the new estimates. Notably, the CDC changed the way it calculates prediabetes prevalence, but did not provide a comprehensive explanation for these adjustments.
This lack of transparency has led some scientists, including Stanford University diabetes and nutrition expert Christopher Gardner, to express skepticism about the accuracy of the figures. Gardner and others have called for greater clarity and openness regarding the data sources and analytical methods, especially in light of recent staff reductions at national health organizations.
What Is Prediabetes and Who Is at Risk?
Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are elevated but not yet in the diabetic range. Risk factors include being overweight, having a family history of Type 2 diabetes, and low levels of physical activity. The CDC notes that prediabetes can often be reversed or managed with weight loss and increased exercise.
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This article is based on preliminary data released by the CDC. The agency has not published the full underlying data or a peer-reviewed analysis explaining changes in methodology. As a result, some experts have raised concerns about the transparency and reliability of these findings. Readers should interpret the results with caution until more detailed information is made available.
