Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by high blood glucose levels due to the inability of the body to produce or effectively use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar. The diagnosis of diabetes is essential for the proper management and treatment of the condition. In this article, we will discuss how diabetes is diagnosed.
The diagnostic criteria for diabetes are based on the measurement of blood glucose levels. There are different tests available to measure blood glucose levels, including fasting plasma glucose (FPG), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test. Let’s take a closer look at these tests.
Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test The FPG test measures the blood glucose level after a person has fasted for at least eight hours. The test is usually done in the morning after an overnight fast. A blood sample is taken, and the glucose level is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). If the glucose level is equal to or greater than 126 mg/dL, the person is diagnosed with diabetes.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) The OGTT is a more sensitive test for diagnosing diabetes. It measures the blood glucose level before and after a person drinks a sugary solution. The test is done in the morning after an overnight fast. The person drinks a sugary solution, and their blood glucose level is measured at regular intervals over two hours. If the glucose level is equal to or greater than 200 mg/dL after two hours, the person is diagnosed with diabetes.
Glycated Hemoglobin (A1C) Test The A1C test measures the average blood glucose level over the past two to three months. It is done by taking a blood sample, and the result is expressed as a percentage. An A1C level of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.
It is important to note that the diagnosis of diabetes should be based on two separate tests that show high blood glucose levels. If only one test shows high blood glucose levels, the test should be repeated on a different day.
In addition to these tests, there are other factors that healthcare providers consider when diagnosing diabetes. These factors include symptoms of diabetes, such as frequent urination, increased thirst, and unexplained weight loss, and risk factors for diabetes, such as family history, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle.
In conclusion, the diagnosis of diabetes is based on the measurement of blood glucose levels using different tests, including the FPG test, OGTT, and A1C test. The diagnosis should be based on two separate tests that show high blood glucose levels, and healthcare providers should consider other factors such as symptoms and risk factors when diagnosing diabetes. Early diagnosis and proper management of diabetes are essential for preventing complications and improving the quality of life of people with diabetes. If you are at risk for diabetes or have symptoms of diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider about getting tested.
How diabetes is diagnosed