Prediabetes

Definition

Prediabetes is a condition characterized by blood sugar levels that are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes. It is a critical warning sign and an opportunity for intervention to prevent the progression to diabetes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Prediabetes is diagnosed through fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance tests, or A1C levels.
2. Without lifestyle changes, individuals with prediabetes are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes within 10 years.
3. Pharmacological interventions like metformin may be used in some cases to prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes in people with prediabetes.
4. Lifestyle modifications such as weight loss, healthy eating, and physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of progression from prediabetes to diabetes.
5. Prediabetes often has no clear symptoms, making regular screening important for early detection.

Review Questions

• What are the standard diagnostic criteria for prediabetes?
• How can lifestyle changes impact the progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes?
• Which pharmacological agent is commonly prescribed to manage prediabetes?

Related terms

Type 2 Diabetes: A chronic condition characterized by insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels.

Insulin Resistance: A condition where cells in the body do not respond effectively to insulin.

Metformin: An oral medication used primarily for treating type 2 diabetes and sometimes prescribed for prediabetes management.