Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

Which diabetes indication corresponds with fasting glucose levels between 6 and 7?

1. Normal Glucose

2. Impaired Fasting Glucose

3. Diabetes Mellitus

4. Safe Glucose Level

The correct answer is: Impaired Fasting Glucose

The indication that corresponds with fasting glucose levels between 6 and 7 mmol/L is indeed classified as Impaired Fasting Glucose. This range serves as a warning sign indicating that the individual’s glucose metabolism is abnormal but not yet at the level that would lead to a diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus. In the context of the American Diabetes Association's criteria for diagnosing diabetes, a fasting blood glucose level of less than 5.6 mmol/L is considered normal. A fasting level between 5.6 and 6.9 mmol/L falls into the category of Impaired Fasting Glucose and signifies insulin resistance or a risk for developing type 2 diabetes. This critical range indicates that while the body is still managing glucose levels relatively well, there are underlying issues that may need addressing. Once fasting glucose surpasses 7 mmol/L, the diagnosis shifts to Diabetes Mellitus. Therefore, the identification of fasting levels between 6 and 7 mmol/L as Impaired Fasting Glucose is crucial for early detection and intervention, which could potentially prevent the progression to diabetes.