Diabetes Dictionary

Key Points at a Glance

The “Diabetes Dictionary” published by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) is one of the most authoritative terminology references in the diabetes field. Whether you are a diabetes patient, family member, or medical professional, understanding these terms helps you better understand and communicate diabetes-related issues.

This article selects the most important terms from the dictionary for explanation, helping you establish a solid foundation of diabetes knowledge. Mastering these terms will enable you to communicate more confidently with healthcare teams and understand health information more accurately.

Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG)

Fasting plasma glucose is blood sugar measured after at least 8 hours of fasting. Normal fasting blood sugar range is 70-100 mg/dL (3.9-5.6 mmol/L). Diabetes diagnostic criteria: fasting blood sugar ≥126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L).

Postprandial Blood Sugar (PP)

Postprandial blood sugar is measured 2 hours after a meal. Normal 2-hour post-meal blood sugar should be below 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L). Diabetes diagnostic criteria: ≥200 mg/dL (11.1 mmol/L).

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)

Hemoglobin A1c reflects the average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months and is the gold standard for evaluating long-term blood sugar control. Normal range is 4%-5.6%. Diabetes diagnostic criteria: ≥6.5%.

Blood Sugar Variability

Blood sugar variability refers to the degree of blood sugar changes throughout the day. Greater blood sugar variability may increase complication risk. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) can help assess blood sugar variability.

Diabetes Type Terms

Type 1 Diabetes

A type of diabetes where the pancreatic beta cells are destroyed by autoimmune disease, leading to absolute insulin deficiency. Patients require lifelong insulin treatment. Accounts for about 5%-10% of diabetes patients.

Type 2 Diabetes

The most common type of diabetes, characterized by insulin resistance and relative insulin secretion deficiency. Closely related to genetic factors and lifestyle. Accounts for over 90% of diabetes patients.

Gestational Diabetes

Diabetes occurring during pregnancy, usually disappears after delivery. Monitoring is important as it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

Prediabetes

A stage where blood sugar is higher than normal but not meeting diabetes diagnostic criteria. Includes impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance. Prediabetes is a critical window for diabetes prevention.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Eye complications caused by diabetes that can affect retinal blood vessels. Early stages may have no obvious symptoms; late stages can lead to blindness. Regular eye examinations are very important.

Diabetic Nephropathy

Kidney damage caused by diabetes, one of the most serious complications. Early manifestation is microalbuminuria; late stages may develop into kidney failure.

Diabetic Neuropathy

Nerve damage caused by diabetes that can affect sensory, motor, and autonomic nerves. Peripheral neuropathy is most common and can lead to reduced foot sensation and ulcers.

Cardiovascular Disease

Diabetes patients have significantly increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. Controlling blood sugar, blood pressure, and lipids are all important.

Insulin

A hormone secreted by pancreatic beta cells that helps glucose enter cells for energy. Diabetes patients may need supplemental exogenous insulin.

Metformin

The first-choice oral hypoglycemic drug for type 2 diabetes, which lowers blood sugar by reducing liver glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity.

Insulin Resistance

A condition where the body is not sensitive to insulin’s effects, requiring more insulin to achieve the same blood sugar lowering effect. A major characteristic of type 2 diabetes.

Insulin Pump

A device that continuously delivers insulin, which can simulate pancreatic function. Provides a more flexible insulin delivery method.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Which is more important, HbA1c or daily blood sugar monitoring?

Both are important. Daily blood sugar monitoring helps you understand immediate blood sugar status and adjust treatment; HbA1c reflects long-term blood sugar control. It is recommended to use both together.

Q2: Does prediabetes need treatment?

Prediabetes is an important stage for diabetes prevention. Although not yet diabetes, active intervention is needed, including diet adjustment, exercise, and weight management.

Q3: Does insulin have side effects?

The main side effects of insulin are hypoglycemia and weight gain. Correct insulin use and close monitoring can minimize side effects.

This article is for reference only and cannot replace professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for health issues.