Diabetes Screening: Take Control of Your Health with HbA1c and Fasting Glucose Tests
Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health challenges worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. The good news? It’s highly manageable—and often preventable—if caught early. Diabetes screening tests, including the HbA1c and fasting glucose tests, are simple yet powerful tools for identifying your risk, detecting early signs, and empowering you to take proactive steps toward better health.
At HealthSpans, we’re committed to helping you stay ahead of potential health concerns. If you’re curious about what these tests involve, what they can reveal, and why they’re essential for long-term wellness, read on to learn more.
What Are the HbA1c and Fasting Glucose Tests?
The HbA1c test and fasting glucose test are two of the most reliable methods for screening and monitoring diabetes. They provide complementary insights into how your body processes sugar, offering a comprehensive picture of your risk or current health status.
HbA1c Test
Measures your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months.
Reflects long-term glucose control and is not influenced by short-term fluctuations.
Fasting Glucose Test
Measures your blood sugar levels after fasting for 8–12 hours.
Provides a snapshot of your glucose levels at a specific point in time, helping to identify abnormalities.
What the Tests Involve
Both tests are quick, simple, and minimally invasive:
Preparation:
For the fasting glucose test, you’ll be asked to avoid eating or drinking (except water) for 8–12 hours before your appointment.
The HbA1c test requires no special preparation.
Blood Sample Collection:
A small sample of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm using a sterile technique.
Laboratory Analysis:
The blood is analysed to measure glucose levels and HbA1c percentages.
Results and Review:
Your doctor will explain the results and discuss next steps based on your health profile and goals.
What Do These Tests Look For?
These tests help assess your risk for diabetes and monitor its progression if you’ve already been diagnosed.
HbA1c Test
Normal Range: Below 5.7%
Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
Diabetes: 6.5% or higher
Fasting Glucose Test
Normal Range: Below 100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L)
Prediabetes: 100–125 mg/dL (5.6–6.9 mmol/L)
Diabetes: 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L) or higher
The tests can also help evaluate how well you’re managing blood sugar levels if you’re already living with diabetes.
The Benefits of Diabetes Screening
Screening for diabetes offers numerous benefits, particularly when it comes to prevention and early intervention:
1. Early Detection Saves Lives
Diabetes often develops silently, with no noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Screening identifies risks or early signs, allowing for timely interventions that can prevent complications.
2. Preventing Progression
If prediabetes is detected, lifestyle changes and medical guidance can stop it from developing into full-blown diabetes.
3. Better Blood Sugar Management
For those already diagnosed, regular testing helps monitor glucose control and fine-tune treatment plans.
4. Reducing Long-Term Risks
Uncontrolled diabetes increases the risk of heart disease, kidney failure, vision problems, and nerve damage. Early detection and management can prevent these complications.
5. Personalised Care Plans
Your test results provide a roadmap for customised care, from dietary adjustments to exercise plans and, if needed, medications.
Why Diabetes Screening Is Essential
Diabetes is a condition that affects nearly every part of your body. By screening early, you’re not only safeguarding your health but also improving your quality of life. These tests help:
Protect Your Heart: Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease, so early management is crucial.
Preserve Vision: High blood sugar can damage the eyes over time.
Support Kidney Health: Early detection reduces the risk of kidney damage or failure.
Enhance Daily Energy: Proper glucose control boosts energy levels and reduces fatigue.
Why Choose HealthSpans for Your Diabetes Screening?
At HealthSpans, we combine state-of-the-art testing with personalised, compassionate care to deliver exceptional preventative services. Here’s why we’re the best choice for diabetes screening:
1. Comprehensive Testing
We use the latest diagnostic tools to provide accurate, reliable results for HbA1c and fasting glucose levels.
2. Expert Interpretation
Our experienced doctors review your results thoroughly, explaining what they mean in easy-to-understand terms and connecting them to your overall health.
3. Personalised Care Plans
If your results indicate a risk for diabetes or prediabetes, we’ll create a tailored prevention or management plan that fits your lifestyle and goals.
4. Preventative Focus
We prioritise early detection and proactive care, helping you stay ahead of potential complications.
5. Ongoing Support
Whether you’re preventing diabetes or managing it, we provide regular monitoring, follow-ups, and adjustments to your care plan to ensure success.
Who Should Consider a Diabetes Screening Test?
Diabetes screening is recommended for everyone, but it’s especially important if you:
Are over 35 years old.
Have a family history of diabetes.
Are overweight or have a sedentary lifestyle.
Experience symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained fatigue.
Have high blood pressure or cholesterol.
Have a history of gestational diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Take Control of Your Health Today
Diabetes is a serious condition, but it’s also one of the most manageable with early detection and proactive care. Screening with HbA1c and fasting glucose tests gives you the insights you need to stay healthy, prevent complications, and live your life to the fullest.
At HealthSpans, we’re dedicated to helping you protect your health with confidence and clarity. Contact us today to schedule your diabetes screening and take the first step toward a healthier, more empowered future.
HealthSpans: Proactive Care for a Healthier You.