what laboratory test for diabetes

Several laboratory tests are commonly used to diagnose and monitor diabetes:

• A1C Test: Measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. Results are given as a percentage:

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

• Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) 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

• Random Blood Sugar Test: Measures blood sugar at any time, regardless of when you last ate.

  • Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher with symptoms

These tests help diagnose diabetes, prediabetes, and monitor blood sugar control over time.