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Impaired glucose tolerance: what are the clinical implications?
1Human Diabetes and Metabolism Research Centre, School of Clinical Medical Sciences, Department of Medicine, The Medical School, Framlington, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. george.alberti@ncl.ac.uk
Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice
|September 18, 1998
Summary
Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Early detection and management of IGT can help prevent or delay diabetes progression.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Disorders
- Public Health
Background:
- Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) was standardized in 1979 by the National Diabetes Data Group and the World Health Organization.
- IGT replaced previous classifications like 'borderline' or 'chemical' diabetes.
- Defined by abnormal 2-hour plasma glucose levels post-75g glucose load, without microangiopathy risk in non-diabetic fasting glucose individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the definition, prevalence, determinants, and clinical significance of Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT).
- To highlight IGT's role as a precursor to type 2 diabetes and a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Main Methods:
- Review of standardized definitions and diagnostic criteria for IGT.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on IGT prevalence and determinants.
- Synthesis of clinical significance based on established research.
Main Results:
- IGT affects 2-25% of adults and is influenced by age, obesity, family history, inactivity, and triglycerides.
- Individuals with IGT have a 20-50% risk of developing type 2 diabetes within 10 years.
- IGT is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and a component of metabolic syndrome.
Conclusions:
- IGT is a critical pre-diabetic state with significant health implications.
- Treatment of IGT may prevent or delay type 2 diabetes onset.
- The impact of IGT treatment on cardiovascular disease risk remains an area for further investigation.