Prediabetes is becoming increasingly common in the Rio Grande Valley, but one local man's story proves that early detection and simple lifestyle changes can reverse the condition before it becomes full-blown diabetes.

Oscar Garcia's life looks much different today. He's running, moving, and staying active with one goal in mind — staying healthy for his children.

"I don't want to miss out on their events. I want to be here for a long time for them," Garcia said.

The Wake-Up Call

But a year ago, Garcia had no idea he was at risk of diabetes. He only went to the doctor because his insurance required a routine check-up.

"I think it was just going to be an in and out thing," he recalled.

Bloodwork showed his fasting blood sugar was above normal. A week later, he was tested again and the numbers were still high. That's when doctors diagnosed him with prediabetes — a condition that runs in his family.

Simple Changes, Big Results

For Garcia, the diagnosis was the push he needed to change his habits. The changes weren't dramatic — they were sustainable.

Garcia's Lifestyle Changes:

• Swapped tortillas for lettuce wraps when craving tacos

• Started running and staying more active

• Maintained regular check-ups with his doctor

"So no tacos, and if I crave them, because that's my go-to food, I make them lettuce wrapped," Garcia explained.

The results speak for themselves. Garcia's fasting blood sugar dropped from 115 to 105 — moving him back toward healthy levels and away from the diabetes threshold.

Warning Signs to Watch For

According to DHR Health Adult and Pediatric Endocrinologist Dr. Surya Mulukutla, many people don't realize they're at risk until they're tested. However, there are warning signs you can watch for.

Warning Sign: Darkened Skin

"You'll see that standing in the line at the grocery store, somebody's neck and you'll see the darkening of the skin, that's a sign of insulin resistance that, unchecked, can lead to prediabetes officially," Dr. Mulukutla said.

Family history also plays a major role, making regular check-ups even more important for those with relatives who have diabetes.

Free Screenings Available

H-E-B and South Texas Health System are offering free diabetes screenings throughout April. Don't wait — early detection can change everything.

Find Screening Locations

Why This Matters

The Rio Grande Valley has one of the highest diabetes rates in the nation. Stories like Garcia's show that with early detection and simple lifestyle changes, the disease can be prevented.

"Make sure you get some labs checked and take care of what we eat and that's pretty much all I can say," Garcia advised others. "Stay active."

Source: KRGV Channel 5 - Heart of the Valley