What diagnostic tests are commonly used to identify diabetes?

The fasting blood glucose test, oral glucose tolerance test, and A1C test are the primary diagnostic tools used to identify diabetes.

The fasting blood glucose test measures the blood sugar levels after an overnight fast. A result of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes. This test is straightforward and provides immediate results regarding the current state of a person’s blood glucose levels.

The oral glucose tolerance test involves fasting overnight and then drinking a sugary solution. Blood sugar levels are measured at intervals after ingestion. This test is particularly useful for diagnosing type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes, as it assesses how the body processes sugar over time.

The A1C test measures the average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. An A1C level of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes. This test reflects long-term blood glucose control and is recommended for diagnosing diabetes as well as for monitoring ongoing management of the condition.

Other tests, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, or heart rate variability tests, are important for assessing the overall health of individuals with diabetes or for detecting related conditions but are not specific diagnostic tests for diabetes itself.