Test Detail
Understanding the Test
Test Measures
Interpreting Results
FAQ's
References
Other Tests
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Written by
Dr. Betina Chandolia
BDS, MDS - Oral Pathology and Microbiology
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Dr. Ashish Ranjan
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
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Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar)

Also known as Diabetes Panel
Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) Includes 2 testsView All
You need to provide
Blood
This test is for
Male, Female
Test Preparation
  1. Overnight fasting (8-12 hrs) is required. Do not eat or drink anything except water before the test.

Understanding Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar)


What is Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar)?

A Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) test includes two blood tests, namely fasting blood sugar level and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), that help estimate your blood sugar levels, assess your risk of developing diabetes, and monitor its treatment progress. This test is often done as part of a routine health checkup.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the body’s ability to process blood sugar. If left untreated, it can lead to a range of health conditions. The signs and symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, fatigue, and slow healing of wounds. However, some individuals with diabetes may not experience any symptoms at all.

A Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) test combines fasting blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin tests. A fasting blood sugar test helps measure the blood sugar levels after an overnight fasting state, while glycosylated hemoglobin measures the average blood sugar levels over a period of 2 to 3 months. 

Your doctor may suggest a Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) test if you show symptoms suggestive of diabetes, such as nerve damage, vision problems, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, etc. Furthermore, this test is also used to monitor the progress of individuals undergoing diabetes treatment.

Usually, overnight fasting (8 to 12 hours) is preferred before a diabetes screening test. Do not eat or drink anything except water before the test. It is also essential to inform the doctor about any medicines you are taking, as some may affect blood glucose levels and need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued before the test. 

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them evaluate your medical condition and formulate an overall treatment plan.

What is Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) used for?

A Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) test is done:

  • As part of routine health checkups to measure blood glucose levels.
  • If you have symptoms of altered blood glucose levels, such as weight gain, weight loss, blurred vision, frequent urge to urinate, or confusion.
  • To assess the risk of diabetes and prediabetes and monitor diabetes treatment.
  • To screen pregnant women for gestational diabetes.
  • If you have a family history of diabetes, are above 45 years, and are overweight.

What does Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) measure?

Contains 2 tests

A Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) test includes a glycosylated hemoglobin test and a glucose-fasting blood test. The glycosylated hemoglobin test measures the percentage of glycosylated hemoglobin in the blood, while a glucose-fasting blood test measures the glucose level during fasting. Glucose is the main form of sugar utilized by the body to release energy; it is absorbed by the intestine and distributed to all organs through blood. These tests help your doctor to monitor your blood sugar levels and manage your diabetes well. 

Interpreting Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) results


Interpretations

Glycosylated Hemoglobin:

Normal: Below 5.7% (39 mmol/mol approx.)

Prediabetic: 5.7% - 6.4% (39 to 46 mmol/mol approx.)

Diabetic: Above 6.5% (above 48 mmol/mol approx.)

Less than 5.7% Glycated Hemoglobin indicates normal levels of blood sugar. Increased risk of developing Diabetes is found in Prediabetic patients with blood sugar levels between 5.7% and 6.4%. Patients with HbA1c levels greater than 6.5% are usually diagnosed with Diabetes.

Glucose - Fasting Blood:

Normal fasting glucose range: 70 to 99 mg/dL (3.9 to 5.5mmol/L)

Prediabetes: 99 to 126 mg/dL (5.5 mmol/L to 7.0 mmol/L)

Diabetes: Higher than 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L) in multiple subsequent tests

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar)


Frequently Asked Questions about Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar)

Q. Why is a Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) test important?

A Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) test is important because it helps assess a person's risk of diabetes and other glucose metabolism disorders. It also helps monitor blood sugar levels over time in people with diabetes.

Q. How do I prepare for a Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) test?

To prepare for this test, do not eat or drink anything except water for 8-12 hours before the test. It is also important to inform your doctor about any medications that you are taking, as some of them can affect your blood glucose levels and may need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued before the test.

Q. What are the risks associated with a Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) test?

The risks associated with a Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) test are generally minimal. However, some people may experience mild pain or discomfort at the site from where the blood sample is taken, which is usually self-limiting.

Q. Can I take a Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) test during pregnancy?

Yes, a Diabetes Screening (HbA1C & Fasting Sugar) test is commonly used during pregnancy to screen for gestational diabetes, which is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy.

Q. What is prediabetes?

Prediabetes is a condition in which an individual's blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes.
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