Diabetes Screening Tests

Diabetes screening tests are used to detect diabetes, a chronic condition characterized by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Early detection and treatment can help prevent or delay the onset of complications associated with diabetes.

Type of Diabetes Screening Tests

• Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test: This test measures blood glucose levels after an overnight fast of at least 8 hours. A level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): This test measures blood glucose levels after consuming a sugary drink. A level of 200 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
• Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Test: This test measures the average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. A level of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.
• Random Plasma Glucose Test: This test measures blood glucose levels at any time, regardless of when the last meal was consumed. A level of 200 mg/dL or higher, accompanied by symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, indicates diabetes.

Who Should Get Screened for Diabetes?

The American Diabetes Association recommends that the following individuals get screened for diabetes:

• Adults aged 45 or older, regardless of risk factors
• Adults under 45 who are overweight or obese and have one or more additional risk factors, such as:
  • Physical inactivity
  • Family history of diabetes
  • Race/ethnicity (African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, or Asian American)
  • History of gestational diabetes or delivering a baby weighing over 9 pounds
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • High cholesterol
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Children and adolescents who are overweight or obese and have two or more additional risk factors, such as:
  • Family history of diabetes
  • Race/ethnicity (African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, or Asian American)
  • Signs of insulin resistance, such as acanthosis nigricans (dark, velvety skin patches)

What to Expect During a Diabetes Screening Test

A healthcare provider will typically perform the following steps during a diabetes screening test:

1. Take a medical history and assess risk factors for diabetes
2. Measure height, weight, and blood pressure
3. Draw a blood sample to measure glucose levels (for FPG or OGTT tests)
4. Provide instructions on how to prepare for the test, such as fasting or consuming a sugary drink
5. Discuss the results of the test and provide guidance on next steps if diabetes is diagnosed

Interpreting Diabetes Screening Test Results

The following are general guidelines for interpreting diabetes screening test results:

• Normal: FPG less than 100 mg/dL, OGTT less than 140 mg/dL, HbA1c less than 5.7%
• Predabetes: FPG between 100-125 mg/dL, OGTT between 140-199 mg/dL, HbA1c between 5.7-6.4%
• Diabetes: FPG of 126 mg/dL or higher, OGTT of 200 mg/dL or higher, HbA1c of 6.5% or higher

Next Steps After a Diabetes Diagnosis

If diabetes is diagnosed, the following steps may be taken:

1. Develop a treatment plan with a healthcare provider to manage blood glucose levels and prevent complications
2. Lifestyle modifications, such as:
   • Eating a healthy diet
   • Increasing physical activity
   • Losing weight (if overweight or obese)
3. Medications to manage blood glucose levels, if necessary
4. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels and HbA1c tests to assess treatment effectiveness