Prediabetes - Blog

Prediabetes is a condition that precedes diabetes and is characterized by impaired blood sugar regulation. It is crucial to detect prediabetes early, as 7 out of 10 people with this condition go on to develop type 2 diabetes.

Diagnosing prediabetes

Elevated fasting blood glucose levels (5.6 – 6.9 mmol/L) – IFG
Impaired glucose tolerance two hours after an oral glucose tolerance test (7.8 – 11.0 mmol/L) – IGT
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) levels between 5.7% and 6.4%

Prediabetes and metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome, also known as insulin resistance syndrome or Syndrome X, is not a disease but rather a collection of factors that increase the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. These factors include:

Obesity (body mass index – BMI over 25 kg/m²)
High blood pressure (>140/90 mmHg)
Elevated blood sugar levels (fasting glucose >5.6 mmol/L)
High triglycerides
Low HDL ("good" cholesterol)

Insulin resistance leads to increased blood sugar levels, which can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and its complications. These complications can be macrovascular (such as heart attack and stroke) or microvascular (including damage to the retina, kidneys, and nerves).

People with prediabetes and metabolic syndrome are at an even higher risk due to oxidized LDL ("bad" cholesterol), which accumulates in blood vessels more rapidly and accelerates atherosclerosis.

Who should get tested for prediabetes?

Testing is recommended for individuals who:

Are overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²)
Are physically inactive
Have a history of gestational diabetes or have given birth to a baby weighing over 4000 g
Have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Have high blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels
Have a history of cardiovascular disease

How to prevent diabetes?

Prediabetes can be effectively managed, and its progression to type 2 diabetes can often be prevented. Key steps in treatment include:

Lifestyle changes – adopting a healthier diet and increasing physical activity
Weight loss – reducing body weight improves insulin sensitivity
Medication – prescribed if lifestyle changes alone are not enough

By losing weight and adopting healthier habits, individuals with prediabetes can normalize their blood sugar levels and significantly reduce their risk of developing diabetes.

Dr. Suzana Ivanović, Internal medicine and endocrinology specialist