What is the level of fasting blood glucose (FBG) associated with metabolic syndrome?

The level of fasting blood glucose (FBG) associated with metabolic syndrome is 110 mg/dL or higher. This threshold is significant because it aligns with the diagnostic criteria established for metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is characterized by a cluster of risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

The importance of this threshold lies in its relationship with insulin resistance and the body's inability to effectively handle glucose. When fasting blood glucose exceeds 110 mg/dL, it indicates that there may be a disruption in glucose metabolism, which can lead to further health complications.

In clinical practice, recognizing FBG levels of 110 mg/dL or greater is crucial for early identification and management of individuals at risk for metabolic syndrome, allowing for interventions that can improve health outcomes. Understanding these values helps healthcare providers to identify patients who may need lifestyle modifications or closer surveillance for the development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Lower values, such as those less than 100 mg/dL, do not typically indicate the presence of metabolic syndrome, and even 100-110 mg/dL may signify a state of impaired fasting glucose rather than full metabolic syndrome.