Just been diagnosed? | What you need to know about diabetes

When you or someone you love is diagnosed with diabetes, it can be devastating. You probably have a million questions, and we’re here to help. You can rely on us to ease your fears while teaching you and your family how to live with the condition.

Join our Diabetes Support group where you can connect with other people affected by diabetes.

Making sure your diagnosis is accurate

There are several tests available to find out if you have prediabetes or diabetes. Some options are described below. Please talk to your primary care provider about which option is best for you.

A1C

The A1C test measures your average blood glucose for the past two to three months. The advantages of being diagnosed this way are that you don’t have to fast or drink anything.

Diabetes is diagnosed at an A1C of greater than or equal to 6.5%.*

Result	A1C
Normal	Less than 5.7%
Prediabetes	5.7% to 6.4%
Diabetes	6.5% or higher

FPG

This test checks your fasting blood glucose levels. Fasting means after not having anything to eat or drink (except water) for at least 8 hours before the test. This test is usually done first thing in the morning, before breakfast.

Diabetes is diagnosed at a fasting blood glucose of greater than or equal to 126 mg/dL.*

Result	Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG)
Normal	Less than 100 mg/dL
Prediabetes	100 mg/dL to 125 mg/dL
Diabetes	126 mg/dL or higher

OGTT

The OGTT is a two-hour test that checks your blood glucose levels before and two hours after you drink a special sweet drink. It tells the doctor how your body processes sugar.

Diabetes is diagnosed at a two-hour blood glucose of greater than or equal to 200 mg/dL.*

Result	Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)
Normal	Less than 140 mg/dL
Prediabetes	140 to 199 mg/dL
Diabetes	200 mg/dL or higher

Random Plasma Glucose

This test is a blood check at any time of the day when you have severe diabetes symptoms.

Diabetes is diagnosed at a blood glucose of greater than or equal to 200 mg/dL .*