what are the 3 stages of diabetes

The progression of diabetes is typically categorized into three phases: prediabetes, diagnosis, and the stage of complications. Recognizing these phases is crucial for the early detection and management of diabetes, which in turn helps to mitigate the risk of severe complications.

During the prediabetes phase, a patient's blood glucose levels are elevated above the normal range but do not yet meet the criteria for a diabetes diagnosis. This phase may be asymptomatic, yet regular blood glucose monitoring can identify it. Interventions at this stage, such as improving dietary habits and increasing physical activity, can potentially prevent or slow the onset of diabetes.

A diagnosis of diabetes is confirmed when blood glucose levels persistently exceed the diagnostic thresholds, specifically fasting blood glucose levels of ≥7.0 mmol/L or postprandial glucose levels of ≥11.1 mmol/L two hours after meals. At this stage, patients may start to experience classic diabetes symptoms, including polydipsia, polyuria, and weight loss. Treatment often involves lifestyle modifications, pharmacological interventions, and regular blood glucose monitoring.

If diabetes remains uncontrolled, it can advance to the complication stage, where a range of serious health issues may arise, including cardiovascular diseases, nephropathy, retinopathy, and neuropathy. Therefore, timely diagnosis and treatment of diabetes, adherence to medical advice, and appropriate adjustments to lifestyle and medication regimens are essential for preventing and managing diabetes and its associated complications.