What is the Difference Between Prediabetes and Diabetes?

The main difference between prediabetes and diabetes lies in the blood sugar levels and the stage at which the condition is diagnosed. Here are the key differences:

• Blood sugar levels: Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. In contrast, diabetes is diagnosed when blood sugar levels are consistently elevated above the normal range.
• Insulin resistance: In prediabetes, the cells in the body don't respond normally to insulin, causing the pancreas to produce more insulin to try to get cells to respond. Eventually, the pancreas can't keep up, and blood sugar rises, leading to prediabetes and potentially type 2 diabetes. In diabetes, the body cannot properly use insulin, leading to an elevated blood sugar level.
• Progression: Prediabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, the most common form of diabetes. Prediabetes can often be reversed, while diabetes is a chronic condition that requires lifelong management.
• Diagnosis: Both prediabetes and diabetes can be diagnosed through blood sugar tests, which should be carried out in a healthcare setting.
• Prevention and management: Prediabetes is considered a chance to prevent type 2 diabetes by making lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet, increasing physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight. Diabetes management involves monitoring blood sugar levels, taking medications as prescribed by a healthcare professional, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits to control blood sugar levels.

Comparative Table: Prediabetes vs Diabetes

The main difference between prediabetes and diabetes lies in blood sugar levels. Here is a table comparing the two conditions:

Prediabetes is a condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes. It is a precursor to diabetes, and people with prediabetes are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, diabetes is diagnosed when blood sugar levels are consistently elevated above the normal range, and it is a chronic condition that can lead to various health complications.