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Which test will tell me if I have diabetes?

The fasting blood glucose test is the most common test used to diagnose diabetes. For this test, you will need to go to the lab where they will draw your blood, usually in the morning after you have not had anything to eat or drink (except water) for about eight hours. You will then be asked to get a second fasting blood glucose test on a different day.

This second test will confirm the results from the first test. If you have any symptoms of diabetes, your doctor or other medical professional may order a random blood glucose test instead.

To learn if you are at high risk for type 2 diabetes, note each risk factor below that applies to you:

• You have a brother, sister, or parent with diabetes.
• You are American Indian, Latino, African American, or Asian/Pacific Islander.
• You have had a baby weighing more than nine pounds or have been told by your doctor or other medical professional that you have had "gestational diabetes."
• You are overweight. An unhealthy weight is defined as a Body Mass Index, or BMI, over 25. Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of body weight relative to height.
• You have high blood pressure (138/89 or greater), or low HDL cholesterol (35 or less) or high triglycerides (greater than 250).
• You have been told by your doctor or other medical professional that you have pre-diabetes.
• You are a woman with polycystic ovarian syndrome.
• You exercise less than three times a week.

The more risk factors you have, the higher your chance of getting type 2 diabetes.

What can I do if I am at risk for diabetes?

To help delay or reduce your risk of diabetes you can:

• Eat fewer calories.
• Eat less fat. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Get more physical activity, at least 30 to 60 minutes every day.
• Lose a small amount of weight (about 5 to 10 percent of your body weight) if you are overweight.
• Maintain a healthy weight (BMI between 18 to 25).

These changes help most people living with diabetes stay healthy. Many people living with diabetes will also need to take diabetes pills or insulin shots to help control their diabetes. If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar and blood pressure often at home. This can help you avoid long-term damage to your eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart.

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