how is diabetes 2 diagnosed

Type 2 diabetes is typically diagnosed through several blood tests that measure blood sugar levels. The most common tests include:

• A1C Test: Measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2-3 months. An A1C level of 6.5% or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.
• Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test: Measures blood sugar after an overnight fast. A fasting blood sugar level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar before and 2 hours after drinking a sugary drink. A 2-hour blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
• Random Blood Sugar Test: Measures blood sugar at any time, regardless of when you last ate. A level of 200 mg/dL or higher suggests diabetes, especially if accompanied by symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained weight loss.

Your healthcare provider may use one or more of these tests to confirm a diagnosis. If you have risk factors for diabetes, such as obesity or a family history, regular screening is recommended.