Which tests diagnose diabetes?
| Test | Normal | Prediabetes | Diabetes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fasting Blood Sugar | <100 mg/dL | 100–125 | ≥126 mg/dL |
| Post-meal (2hr PPBS) | <140 mg/dL | 140–199 | ≥200 mg/dL |
| Random Sugar (with symptoms) | <140 mg/dL | – | ≥200 mg/dL |
| HbA1c | <5.7% | 5.7–6.4% | ≥6.5% |
Diagnosis requires: two abnormal fasting tests on separate days, OR one fasting + one PPBS positive, OR HbA1c ≥6.5% on two occasions.
What other tests do diabetics need?
Once diagnosed with diabetes, your doctor will monitor multiple organ systems that diabetes affects over time:
| Test | Why needed | How often |
|---|---|---|
| HbA1c | 3-month average sugar control | Every 3 months |
| KFT (Creatinine, eGFR) | Diabetic kidney disease | Yearly |
| Urine Microalbumin | Earliest sign of kidney damage | Yearly |
| Lipid Profile | Heart disease risk | Yearly |
| LFT | Fatty liver (common in T2DM) | Yearly |
| Eye exam | Diabetic retinopathy | Yearly |
What does HbA1c mean in practice?
HbA1c target for most diabetics: below 7%
HbA1c of 7% corresponds to an average blood sugar of about 154 mg/dL. For most Type 2 diabetics, the target is below 7%. For elderly patients or those with frequent hypoglycaemia, a slightly higher target (7.5–8%) may be safer. For young, newly diagnosed patients without complications, aiming for below 6.5% is ideal. Always discuss your personal target with your doctor — it's not one-size-fits-all.
Can Type 2 diabetes be reversed?
Yes — especially in early stages
Type 2 diabetes can be put into remission (HbA1c normalises without medication) with significant weight loss (10–15% of body weight), a low-calorie or low-carbohydrate diet, and regular exercise. This is most achievable in the first 5 years of diagnosis. Even without full remission, lifestyle improvements dramatically reduce complications. Prediabetes is almost always reversible with lifestyle changes alone.
Questions to ask your doctor
- What is my HbA1c target and am I reaching it?
- Do I need to check my kidneys, eyes and feet this year?
- Should I be on a statin for heart protection?
- Can I reduce my medication with better diet and exercise?