what is a diabetes blood test

A diabetes blood test is a diagnostic tool used to measure blood sugar levels and assess whether a person has diabetes or prediabetes. The most common tests include:

• A1C Test: Measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It is used to diagnose diabetes and monitor blood sugar control.

  • Normal: Below 5.7%
  • Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
  • Diabetes: 6.5% or above

• Fasting Blood Sugar Test: Measures blood sugar after an overnight fast.

  • Normal: Less than 100 mg/dL
  • Prediabetes: 100-125 mg/dL
  • Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher

• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar before and after drinking a glucose-rich drink.

  • Normal: Less than 140 mg/dL after 2 hours
  • Prediabetes: 140-199 mg/dL after 2 hours
  • Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher after 2 hours

These tests help healthcare providers diagnose diabetes, monitor treatment effectiveness, and guide lifestyle or medication adjustments.