what tests are done for diabetes

Several tests are commonly used to diagnose and monitor diabetes:

• A1C Test: Measures your 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. Results are in mg/dL:

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

• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar before and 2 hours after drinking a sugary drink. Results are in mg/dL:

  • Normal: Less than 140 mg/dL
  • Prediabetes: 140 to 199 mg/dL
  • Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher

• Random Blood Sugar Test: Measures blood sugar at any time, regardless of when you last ate. A result of 200 mg/dL or higher suggests diabetes.

These tests help diagnose diabetes, prediabetes, and monitor how well your diabetes is being managed. Always consult your healthcare provider for the most appropriate test and interpretation of results.