Pre-Diabetes - Impaired Fasting Glucose (IFG)

Impaired fasting glucose (IFG), more commonly known as pre-diabetes, is defined as glucose levels of 100 to 125 mg per dL (5.6 to 6.9 mmol per L) in fasting patients.

Impaired fasting glucose occurs when blood glucose levels in the body are elevated during periods of fasting, but not enough to prompt a diagnosis of diabetes.This pre-diabetic state is associated with insulin resistance and increased risk of cardiovascular pathology, although of lesser risk than impaired glucose tolerance (IGT).

IFG can progress to type 2 diabetes mellitus if lifestyle changes are not made. There is a 50% risk over 10 years of progressing to overt diabetes. A recent study cited the average time for progression as less than three years.

Fasting blood glucose levels are in a continuum within a given population, with higher fasting glucose levels corresponding to a higher risk for complications caused by the high glucose levels. Some patients with impaired fasting glucose can also be diagnosed with impaired glucose tolerance, but many have normal responses to a glucose tolerance test.


5.50 minutes video explanation on knowing your fasting glucose level by Dr. Meschino


Sources: www.aafp.org, www.wikipedia.com, www.youtube.com

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