Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What is the typical lipid profile of individuals with prediabetes?

1. High HDL, low triglycerides, and LDL may be elevated

2. Low HDL, LDL, and triglycerides

3. Elevated LDL, with normal levels of HDL and triglycerides

4. Low HDL, elevated triglycerides, and LDL may be elevated

The correct answer is: Low HDL, elevated triglycerides, and LDL may be elevated

Individuals with prediabetes typically exhibit a lipid profile characterized by low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, elevated triglycerides, and potentially elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. This lipid profile is consistent with insulin resistance, which is a hallmark of prediabetes. Low HDL cholesterol is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and the presence of elevated triglycerides is indicative of metabolic disturbances often associated with insulin sensitivity issues. These lipid abnormalities are frequently seen in individuals whose bodies are starting to struggle with effectively managing glucose and lipid metabolism due to the impact of insulin resistance. While the other lipid profiles mentioned do exist, they do not align with the typical findings in those diagnosed with prediabetes. For example, high HDL and low triglycerides would generally be considered protective against metabolic syndrome, whereas elevated LDL with normal HDL and triglycerides does not reflect the common patterns observed in prediabetes. Understanding this typical lipid profile is essential for identifying individuals at risk for developing type 2 diabetes and related cardiovascular complications.