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Everyday health · 2 min
Diabetes prevention: begin with one question
Reviewed by Kamahl Harrisingh, MD on October 24, 2026
A prevention program does not have to begin with a long list of changes. It can begin with a question: “Am I eligible?” That question puts the conversation in the right order. First comes finding out whom the program is for. Then comes talking about the program and its goals.
The 2026 standards from the American Diabetes Association recommend structured diabetes-prevention programs for adults at high risk. These are programs with defined goals. Knowing that a program exists is different from knowing whether it fits a particular person. The care team is the place to discuss eligibility.
For eligible adults with overweight or obesity, the goals include weight reduction that is maintained over time. They also include at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week. These are goals for the eligible group described in the recommendation. They are not personal instructions assigned by reading this page.
It helps to keep the goals and eligibility together. Hearing an activity number alone leaves out whom the recommendation concerns. Hearing a weight goal alone does the same. A useful discussion connects both goals with the group they are intended for. No reader needs to turn these general program goals into a personal plan on their own.
Programs can be offered in person. Suitable options supported by technology are another way to take part. The format can be part of the eligibility conversation. For example: “Which options are available in person, and which use technology?” The format question concerns how a program is offered, while eligibility concerns whom it is for.
Screening is another part of this topic. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends it for nonpregnant adults aged 35 to 70 with overweight or obesity. This screening recommendation concerns people without diabetes symptoms. The task force also recommends offering effective prevention interventions when prediabetes is found. Screening and joining a program are related steps, but they are not the same step.
This is information to bring to a conversation, not a promise about an individual outcome. The age and weight group describes a recommendation; it does not tell a reader what a test result will be. The practical starting point stays simple: ask the care team about eligibility for a prevention program.
Try this
Ask the care team one question: “Am I eligible for a structured diabetes-prevention program?” The question can include whether an in-person or suitable technology-supported option is available.
Quick check
For whom does the ADA recommend structured diabetes-prevention programs?
Answer: Adults at high risk — The 2026 ADA standards recommend these programs for adults at high risk.
Which is a program goal for eligible adults with overweight or obesity?
Answer: At least 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly — For this eligible group, goals include sustained weight reduction and at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week.
Which group is covered by the USPSTF screening recommendation described here?
Answer: Nonpregnant adults aged 35–70 with overweight or obesity and no diabetes symptoms — The screening recommendation concerns this group. Effective prevention interventions are offered when prediabetes is found.
Sources
This article is general health education reviewed by physicians. It is not medical advice for your situation. Talk to your clinician before changing medication or treatment, and seek urgent care for symptoms that worry you.