Pre-Diabetes and Its Significance
Pre-diabetes, a precursor to type 2 diabetes, is characterized by elevated blood sugar levels not meeting the diabetes diagnosis threshold. Individuals with pre-diabetes are at an increased risk of developing diabetes if preventive measures aren't taken.
Blood Sugar Levels
Pre-diabetes is categorized into two main types based on blood sugar levels:
Impaired Fasting Glycaemia: Fasting plasma glucose levels range between 6.1-6.9 mmol/L.
Impaired Glucose Tolerance: 2-hour plasma glucose levels fall between 7.8-11.0 mmol/L.
Insulin Resistance
Insulin resistance, a key feature of pre-diabetes, occurs when body cells fail to respond adequately to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels despite increased insulin production.
Understanding Diabetes (Type 2)
Type 2 diabetes is characterized by chronically elevated blood sugar levels due to ineffective insulin utilization by the body. Over time, insulin production may decrease, exacerbating the condition.
Blood Sugar Levels
Diabetes is diagnosed when fasting venous blood sugar levels reach 7.0 mmol/L or higher, or random venous blood sugar levels are 11.1 mmol/L or more.
Insulin Production & Function
In diabetes, insulin resistance and impaired insulin production are more severe compared to pre-diabetes, resulting in prolonged elevated blood sugar levels.
Key Differences
Stage of Progression: Pre-diabetes signals early metabolic disorder progression, while diabetes represents the advanced stage.
Blood Sugar Levels: Pre-diabetes thresholds are lower than those for diabetes, aiding in condition staging.
Insulin Function: Pre-diabetes primarily involves insulin resistance, whereas diabetes exhibits both resistance and insufficient insulin production.
Management: Pre-diabetes management primarily focuses on lifestyle modifications, while diabetes management often necessitates medication and structured lifestyle changes.
Why Check for Pre-Diabetes?
Pre-diabetes offers a reversible stage with sufficient insulin production, making proactive lifestyle changes crucial for preventing progression to diabetes. However, diabetes management requires ongoing intervention due to insulin resistance and reduced insulin production.
Impact of Pre-Diabetes Progression to Type 2 Diabetes
Increased Risk of Complications
Impact on Daily Life
Need for Medications
Monitoring Health Parameters
Lifestyle Modifications
Long-Term Health Impact
Pre-Diabetes Check-Up in Singapore
Regular check-ups are vital for early detection and intervention. The Lifestyle Medical Clinic offers comprehensive assessments to detect pre-diabetes early, facilitating timely intervention and condition reversal.