Work

Diagnosis and management of prediabetes and early type 2 diabetes: a qualitative study of patient experiences

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT: OBJECTIVES: To explore experiences and perspectives on diagnosis and management among individuals living with prediabetes or early type 2 diabetes. DESIGN: Qualitative study using semi-structured virtual interviews and Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis. SETTING: British Columbia, Canada. PARTICIPANTS: 12 adults (≥18 years) diagnosed with prediabetes (6.0%≤haemoglobin A1C≤6.4%) or early type 2 diabetes (6.5%≤haemoglobin A1C≤7.0%) within the past 5 years. We used purposeful sampling to recruit eligible participants through an online health research platform. RESULTS: We developed three main themes: (1) ‘Mixed feelings about early detection’ captured the emotionally complex experience of an early diagnosis and the evolving process of sense-making beyond the initial response; (2) ‘Knowledge: a powerful enabler of self-management’ highlighted the role of timely, trusted and meaningful information and how understanding both the risks and the manageability of the condition can motivate action; (3) ‘Care that fits people’s lives’ reflected individuals’ need for supportive and individualised care and their view of lifestyle changes as the foundation of management, with medication to fill gaps if needed. CONCLUSIONS: Centred on the lived experiences of people with prediabetes and early type 2 diabetes, this study highlights the emotional complexity of these diagnoses and the need for care that supports contextualised empowerment and individualised management. The insights from this study can inform patient-centred clinical practice, policy and resource co-design for prediabetes and early type 2 diabetes.

Source: BMJ Open

DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2026-122021