Definition of prediabetes

Med Clin North Am. 2011 Mar;95(2):289-97, vii. doi: 10.1016/j.mcna.2010.11.002.

Abstract

Diabetes evolves through prediabetes, defined as impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and/or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Subjects with IFG/IGT have an increased risk of developing diabetes and a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease than normoglycemic individuals. However, there is considerable evidence that glucose levels lower than those meeting the current definition of prediabetes may also be associated with similar concerns, particularly in high-risk individuals in accordance with a continuous glycemic risk perspective. Therefore, an absolute definition of prediabetes may underestimate the implications and vastness of this disorder. Research should focus on these aspects to minimize the risk of developing a preventable condition.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Blood Glucose / analysis
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / etiology
  • Diabetes Complications / etiology
  • Diabetes Mellitus / blood
  • Diabetes Mellitus / diagnosis
  • Glucose Intolerance / blood
  • Glucose Intolerance / complications
  • Glucose Intolerance / diagnosis
  • Glucose Tolerance Test
  • Glycated Hemoglobin / analysis
  • Humans
  • Prediabetic State / blood
  • Prediabetic State / diagnosis*

Substances

  • Blood Glucose
  • Glycated Hemoglobin A