Hidden Diabetes in Young Adults in London: The Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore
Reviewed by Dr Lauren Holland • Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
Results within 24 – 42 hours. Westminster residents receive 20% off.
Diabetes is no longer a condition that affects only older adults. In London, an increasing number of people in their 20s, 30s and early 40s are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. Many are unaware they have it. The early symptoms are often subtle and easily mistaken for stress, tiredness, long working hours or poor sleep.
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre (MDC), we regularly see young adults who feel fatigued, struggle with concentration or experience unexplained weight changes. Many of these patients discover that the underlying cause is raised blood sugar levels that have gone unnoticed for months or years.
Early testing is essential. Diabetes can cause long-term health problems when left untreated, but early intervention can prevent almost all complications.
This guide explains the symptoms, risks and recommended tests for anyone concerned about hidden diabetes.
Why Diabetes Is Increasing in Young Adults
Several lifestyle and environmental factors explain the rise in London.
Many people do not develop obvious symptoms at first. Blood sugar changes may begin years before diagnosis. Testing helps identify the issue early, when it is easiest to reverse.
Early Symptoms of Hidden Diabetes
The symptoms below may appear gradually. They are often overlooked.
- Constant tiredness
- Feeling tired after meals
- Blurred vision
- Increased thirst
- Dry mouth
- Waking up to urinate
- Headaches
- Brain fog or poor concentration
- Slow healing of cuts
- Itching or skin dryness
- Unexplained weight changes
- Sudden hunger or cravings
- Tingling in the hands or feet
These symptoms do not confirm diabetes, but they are strong indicators that blood tests should be done.
Early Symptoms Specific to Younger Adults
Young adults often present with different patterns.
- Energy crashes in the afternoon
- Difficulty focusing at work
- Irritability when hungry
- Frequent infections
- Acne or skin changes linked to insulin levels
- Increased anxiety or restlessness
- In some cases, weight gain despite regular exercise
These early signs are often thought to be stress-related, but testing shows that blood sugar imbalance may be the cause.
The Difference Between Prediabetes and Diabetes
Prediabetes means your blood sugar is higher than normal but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. It is reversible.
Diabetes means your blood sugar is consistently high and requires medical management.
Many young adults live with prediabetes for years without knowing. Testing helps prevent progression.
Blood Tests That Detect Hidden Diabetes
The following tests provide clarity within 24–42 hours.
Recommended MDC profile
Cardiac Profile MLCP2
This includes HbA1c, lipids, kidney function and key markers linked to early diabetes risk.
Why Blood Sugar Problems Are Often Missed
There are several reasons why young adults delay testing.
Many blood tests identify diabetes long before symptoms become severe.
Health Problems Caused by Undiagnosed Diabetes
If diabetes remains undiagnosed, the following complications may develop:
Early testing helps prevent these complications.
When You Should Test
You should consider testing if:
- You feel tired most days
- You experience energy crashes
- You have gained abdominal weight
- You feel thirsty often
- You urinate frequently
- You have a family history of diabetes
- You have PCOS
- You feel dizzy after meals
- You experience ongoing blurred vision
Testing is also recommended for young adults who:
- Work long hours
- Have an irregular sleep schedule
- Are under chronic stress
- Have reduced physical activity
- Have recently gained weight
Why Early Testing Matters
Diabetes is easier to treat when detected early. Many people with prediabetes can reverse it completely through lifestyle changes. Blood tests help identify whether intervention is needed and what type of changes will be most effective.
The Marylebone Diagnostic Centre Approach
- Fast results within 24–42 hours
- Comprehensive diabetes screening
- Clear explanation of results
- Same-day availability
- Private and confidential appointments
- QC-validated laboratory accuracy
- Open Monday to Saturday
- Five-minute Walk from Baker Street Station
Westminster residents receive 20% off
Book Your Diabetes and Blood Sugar Test in London
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD
Tel: +44 7495 970109
Monday to Saturday, 08:00–16:00
Fast, confidential diabetes screening for young adults in London.
Quick Links
- Diabetes and Blood Sugar Test
- Full Blood Count
- HbA1c Test
- Fatigue and Energy Profile
- Advanced Wellness Profile
- Cardiac Profile
