New CDC data shows nearly 1 in 3 U.S. teens have prediabetes—what parents need to know

We don’t often think about blood sugar when our kids are young. We focus on school lunches, bedtime routines, and keeping them active—rarely on terms like “prediabetes.” New numbers from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are a reminder that it’s worth paying attention earlier than we might expect.

According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 3 U.S. adolescents ages 12–17—about 8.4 million kids—have prediabetes. This finding doesn’t mean these kids are sick, and it doesn’t mean their future is already decided. It signals that their bodies are showing early signs of trouble managing blood sugar. With the right support, blood sugar levels can often return to a healthy range.

Why the numbers look higher now

The CDC based its estimate on the long-running National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which combines lab tests, interviews, and physical exams. Some of the increase compared to earlier figures—closer to 1 in 5 kids—comes from changes in how the data was calculated. Even with that in mind, the percentage is high enough to make blood sugar part of the conversation about kids’ health.

The current release is a short summary without the full dataset or peer-reviewed paper. Researchers and doctors will have more to analyze once that information is available. For now, the data offers a snapshot that shows prediabetes is more common in teens than many parents may expect, and that early detection creates more options for reversing it.

What another new study tells us

Around the same time the CDC shared its findings, researchers from the University at Buffalo published a study on prediabetes in adults. They found that prediabetes showed a stronger link to early mortality for younger adults under 55 than for older adults.

While the study focused on adults, it supports the idea that blood sugar issues identified earlier in life deserve attention. Addressing them sooner gives more time for healthy changes to make an impact.

What this means for parents

Prediabetes in kids is a reason to be informed and proactive. Because it rarely has symptoms, it’s often discovered through routine blood work. A child can feel perfectly fine and still have higher-than-normal blood sugar.

Here are some ways parents can take action:

1. Talk to your child’s doctor about screening

If your child has a family history of type 2 diabetes, carries more weight in the abdomen, belongs to a higher-risk racial or ethnic group, or has other metabolic risk factors, ask their pediatrician about testing. Two common options are the A1C test (a 3-month average of blood sugar) and a fasting glucose test.

2. Keep meals balanced most of the time

Aim for fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and water as the everyday staples. Sugary drinks and ultra-processed snacks can still have their place, just less often.

3. Make movement a natural part of the day

The CDC recommends at least 60 minutes of activity daily for kids. This can be soccer practice, a family hike, dance class, or active play in the yard. The goal is regular movement in whatever form works best.

4. Protect their sleep

Sleep supports blood sugar regulation, mood, and appetite. Consistent bedtime routines help—even for teens who may resist an earlier lights-out.

5. Lead by example

Kids often follow the patterns they see at home. Choosing water over soda, cooking balanced meals, and enjoying active family time can encourage them to do the same.

The bigger picture

The CDC’s new numbers offer an opportunity to bring blood sugar into the broader conversation about children’s health. The same habits that help protect against prediabetes—balanced eating, regular activity, adequate sleep—also support growth, learning, and emotional well-being.

The good news is that these habits can be built in small, manageable ways that work for your family. This isn’t about labels or fear—it’s about creating a healthy foundation for our kids, one choice at a time.

Source:  

1. 1 in 3 U.S. adolescents ages 12–17—about 8.4 million kids—have prediabetes. CDC.1 in 3 U.S. adolescents ages 12–17—about 8.4 million kids—have prediabetes. 
2. The condition affects about 1 in 5 kids. 2025. AP. The condition affects about 1 in 5 kids.
3. Addressing them sooner gives more time for healthy changes to make an impact. Mayo Clinic. Addressing them sooner gives more time for healthy changes to make an impact. Addressing them sooner gives more time for healthy changes to make an impact.
4. Early mortality for younger adults under 55. University at Buffalo. Early mortality for younger adults under 55.