Prediabetes and preclinical latent diabetes are indeed two distinct stages in the progression to T2DM.
Prediabetes is characterized by elevated blood glucose levels not yet diagnosed as diabetes, including impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), with an average duration of 8.5 to 10.3 years.
This phase considerably increases the risk of developing T2DM, as well as that of serious cardiovascular and microvascular complications.
Prevention of progression to type 2 diabetes is crucial at this stage, with interventions such as lifestyle modifications, a balanced diet, regular exercise and sometimes medication, which can significantly reduce this risk. In particular, intensive lifestyle modification programs have been shown to reduce the risk of T2DM in pre-diabetic individuals.
Preclinical latent diabetes, lasting around 4 to 7 years, follows pre-diabetes, and occurs after the biological onset of the disease but before clinical diagnosis. At this stage, although glucose levels are in the diabetic range, clinical symptoms are not yet apparent.
However, serious complications such as coronary heart disease and retinopathy may already be present. Early detection and prompt intervention are essential to limit the worsening of these complications and improve clinical outcomes.
In conclusion, an early prevention-focused approach in the pre-diabetes phase is crucial to reduce the risk of progression to T2DM and associated serious complications.
By identifying and effectively treating this early phase, it is possible to preserve the health and improve the quality of life of individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Learn more about Pep2Dia to maintain a healthy glycemia!
Sources:
Screening for Diabetes and Prediabetes.
Duan D, Kengne AP, Echouffo-Tcheugui JB.
Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am. 2021 Sep;50(3):369-385. doi: 10.1016/j.ecl.2021.05.002.
