Prediabetes: A Worldwide Epidemic.
Prediabetes, defined by blood glucose levels between normal and diabetic levels, is increasing rapidly worldwide. This abnormal physiologic state reflects the rapidly changing access to high-calorie food and decreasing levels of physical activity occurring worldwide, with resultant obesity and metabolic consequences. This is particularly marked in developing countries. Prediabetes poses several threats; there is increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and there are risks inherent to the prediabetes state, including microvascular and macrovascular disease. Studies have helped to elucidate the underlying pathophysiology of prediabetes and to establish the potential for treating prediabetes and preventing T2DM.
Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, 1600 Southwest Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA. Electronic address: catherine.edwards@medicine.ufl.edu.
Catherine M
CM
Edwards
Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, 1600 Southwest Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 1601 South West Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA.
Kenneth
K
Cusi
D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D009765:Obesity; D011236:Prediabetic State / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy*
Impaired fasting glucose; Impaired glucose tolerance; Insulin resistance; Metabolic syndrome; Prediabetes; Type 2 diabetes; β-Cell