86: Diabetes Diagnosis Criteria: Understanding Your Test Results

Ever been told you have type 2 diabetes but left the appointment wondering how that diagnosis was even made? Maybe your A1c looked fine, but your fasting glucose didn’t, or vice versa.

In this episode, we break down the official diabetes diagnostic criteria in a way that finally makes sense. You’ll learn exactly what each test means, how the results are interpreted, and why two people with different test patterns can both be diagnosed correctly.

We also share four case studies that highlight just how confusing and conflicting test results can be. You’ll find out why one was diagnosed with diabetes despite a normal A1c, and why another skipped straight from “normal” to “type 2,” seemingly overnight with no obvious symptoms.

After listening to this episode, you'll have a clearer understanding about what your test results mean and the criteria used to confirm your diabetes diagnosis.

CHAPTERS

3:35 Hemoglobin A1c test (HbA1c or A1c)

4:48 Fasting blood glucose test (FBG)

6:10 Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)

7:02 Random glucose test

8:29 EMMA: No symptoms, two high tests on same day

9:54 JOHN: Symptoms, one high test

12:37 TARYN: Prediabetes A1c, type 2 diabetes OGTT

17:41 AMANDA: Normal A1c, high fasting blood sugar

23:36 Can diabetes diagnostic tests be inaccurate?

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