prediabeeti

Prediabetes is a health condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. It is considered a warning sign that an individual is at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

The exact cause of prediabetes is not fully understood, but it is often linked to insulin resistance, a condition where the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps glucose from food get into cells for energy. When insulin resistance occurs, glucose builds up in the bloodstream. Factors that increase the risk of prediabetes include being overweight or obese, having a sedentary lifestyle, a family history of type 2 diabetes, and certain ethnicities. Age is also a factor, with risk increasing after age 45.

Symptoms of prediabetes are often absent, which is why it can go undetected. In some cases, darkening of the skin in body folds, such as the neck or armpits, known as acanthosis nigricans, can be an indicator.

Diagnosis of prediabetes is typically made through blood tests, including fasting plasma glucose (FPG), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test. Lifestyle changes are the cornerstone of managing prediabetes. These include adopting a healthy diet, increasing physical activity, and achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Even modest weight loss and regular exercise can significantly reduce the risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes. In some cases, medication may be prescribed. Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes and its associated complications.