Prediabetes
Blood sugar levels higher than normal but not yet diabetic — a critical window where weight loss can reverse the trend.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Prediabetes means your blood sugar is higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. Think of it as an early warning signal — without lifestyle changes, many people with prediabetes develop Type 2 Diabetes within 5 to 10 years. The good news is that losing just 5–7% of your body weight can bring blood sugar back to normal levels.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Prediabetes is an intermediate state of glucose dysregulation defined by impaired fasting glucose (IFG: 6.1–6.9 mmol/L), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT: 2-hour OGTT 7.8–11.0 mmol/L), or HbA1c of 5.7–6.4% (39–47 mmol/mol). It reflects underlying insulin resistance and progressive beta-cell dysfunction. Without intervention, approximately 5–10% of individuals with prediabetes progress to Type 2 Diabetes annually, though this progression is strongly modifiable through weight loss and physical activity.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
Prediabetes affects an estimated 1 in 7 Singaporean adults, many of whom are undiagnosed. It represents the single most actionable metabolic warning sign — aggressive weight management at this stage can prevent or significantly delay progression to diabetes. Dr Wang's programme targets the underlying insulin resistance through structured dietary, exercise, and pharmacological interventions.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.