Diabetes: How to Diagnose?
How to Diagnose Diabetes?

Diabetes ​can be diagnosed through blood tests.​

What can I do to find out if I have diabetes?

You can discuss with your doctor about having blood tests done to find out whether you have diabetes.​

The blood tests are:

  1. Random blood glucose

    A random blood glucose sample that is taken without fasting. A random blood glucose of greater than 11.1 mmol/L is suggestive of diabetes.

  2. Fasting blood glucose

    A fasting blood sugar is normally measured after an overnight fast. A fasting blood sugar of 7.0 mmol/L or higher on separate occasions indicates that you have diabetes. Fasting blood glucose measured in an accredited laboratory is the preferred test for the diagnosis of diabetes. This test is easy to perform and is supported by strong evidence.

  3. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)

    ​In this test, you will have a fasting blood glucose level taken, and asked to ​drink a standard amount (75 g) of a sugary drink. A fasting reading of 7.0 mmol/L or a glucose reading of > 11.1 mmol/L two hours after this drink indicates that you have diabetes.

​Ref: O17

Also, check out our other articles on diabetes:

Diabetes: How to Manage Blood Sugar Levels When You Fall Sick

Diabetes Diet Facts and Myths

Diabetes Foot Care: 10 Steps to Healthy Feet

Travelling with Diabetes: Tips Before You Go

HYPERglycaemia (High Blood Glucose): First Signs

HYPERglycaemia (High Blood Glucose): What to Do 

HYPOglycaemia (Low Blood Glucose): Warning Signs and Symptoms

HYPOglycaemia (Low Blood Glucose) and Driving Safely

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