Glucose level 109
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Understanding Glucose Levels: Implications of a Fasting Glucose Level of 109 mg/dL
Impaired Fasting Glucose (IFG) Criteria and Prevalence
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) revised the criteria for impaired fasting glucose (IFG) in 2003, lowering the threshold from 110 mg/dL to 100 mg/dL. This change significantly increased the number of individuals identified with IFG. For instance, in a study conducted in southern Taiwan, 14.2% of participants were newly classified as having IFG with fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels between 100 and 109 mg/dL1. This adjustment has led to a broader recognition of individuals at risk for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Cardiovascular Risks and Metabolic Parameters
Individuals with FPG levels between 100 and 109 mg/dL exhibit higher cardiovascular risk factors compared to those with normal fasting glucose (NFG) levels. Studies have shown that these individuals have increased body weight, body mass index (BMI), abdominal girth, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, 2-hour glucose levels, and triglycerides1 2. Specifically, diastolic blood pressure and uric acid levels are notably higher in this group, indicating a heightened risk for cardiovascular diseases2.
Risk of Developing Diabetes
The risk of progressing to diabetes is significantly higher for individuals with FPG levels between 100 and 109 mg/dL. Research from the Omiya MA cohort study in Japan demonstrated that the hazard ratios for developing diabetes were 3.83 for those with FPG levels of 100-104 mg/dL and 7.87 for those with FPG levels of 105-109 mg/dL, compared to individuals with FPG levels below 85 mg/dL3. This underscores the importance of monitoring and managing glucose levels even within this "borderline" range.
Endothelial Dysfunction and Pre-IFG State
Endothelial dysfunction, a precursor to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases, is also associated with FPG levels between 100 and 109 mg/dL. The Flow-mediated Dilation Japan (FMD-J) study found that flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) decreased significantly as FPG levels increased, indicating impaired endothelial function in individuals with FPG levels in this range4. This suggests that even slightly elevated glucose levels can have adverse effects on vascular health.
Insulin Resistance and Liver Function
Insulin resistance and decreased insulin secretion are prevalent among individuals with FPG levels between 100 and 109 mg/dL. A study on the Taiwanese population revealed that these individuals had higher homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and lower β-cell function (HOMA-%B) compared to those with normal fasting glucose levels6. Additionally, liver enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were associated with increased insulin resistance as glucose levels rose, indicating a potential link between liver function and glucose metabolism6.
Conclusion
A fasting glucose level of 109 mg/dL, while not classified as diabetes, indicates a significant risk for developing diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Individuals with glucose levels in this range exhibit higher metabolic and cardiovascular risk factors, impaired endothelial function, and increased insulin resistance. Monitoring and managing glucose levels, even within this "borderline" range, is crucial for preventing the progression to diabetes and mitigating associated health risks.
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