Blood sugar screening is a preventive health check used to detect high or low glucose levels and identify diabetes or prediabetes early. Since type 2 diabetes can develop slowly with few symptoms, regular screening helps prevent complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, heart, and nerves.
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition where blood sugar stays too high because the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively. Common screening tests include Fasting Blood Glucose, HbA1c which measures 2-3 month average, Oral Glucose Tolerance Test used in pregnancy, and Random Blood Glucose for immediate checks. A doctor interprets results based on lab standards.
Screening is recommended for people with risk factors such as increasing age, overweight, family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, physical inactivity, and previous gestational diabetes. Possible symptoms include frequent urination, excessive thirst, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Pregnant women are also screened for gestational diabetes during antenatal care.
An abnormal result does not automatically mean diabetes. Your doctor may repeat the test or run further checks before diagnosis. To reduce risk of type 2 diabetes, maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, keep a healthy weight, avoid sugary drinks and smoking, and attend routine health checks.
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