With the increasing rates of diabetes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, diabetes testing has become one of the essential examinations to maintain overall health and enable early detection of the disease.
Whether you are experiencing symptoms or simply want to check your health, regular blood sugar testing helps in prevention and early intervention before complications develop.
In this article, we cover everything you need to know about types of diabetes tests, how they are performed, and the best laboratories offering accurate services.
What Is a Diabetes Test?
A diabetes test is a set of examinations used to measure glucose (sugar) levels in the blood. Glucose is the primary source of energy for the body, but consistently high levels may indicate diabetes or prediabetes.
These tests include:
- Fasting Blood Glucose Test
- Postprandial (After Meal) Blood Sugar Test
- HbA1c Test (Glycated Hemoglobin)
- Random Blood Sugar Test
- Insulin Resistance Test
Read more about: Best Laboratory for Early Cancer Detection Tests in Saudi Arabia
Importance of Early Blood Sugar Testing
The importance of early testing includes:
- Early Detection: Enables medical intervention before symptoms appear.
- Prevention of Complications: Such as heart problems, kidney damage, and nerve disorders.
- Lifestyle Adjustment: Improve diet and exercise based on results.
- Treatment Monitoring: Especially for diabetic patients to track medication effectiveness.
Read more about: Best Vitamin Testing Laboratory in Saudi Arabia | ACL Lab
Types of Diabetes Tests Available in Saudi Arabia
Accredited laboratories in Saudi Arabia provide precise tests for diagnosing diabetes, including:
- Fasting Blood Glucose Test: Conducted after 8 hours of fasting.
- Random Blood Sugar Test: Conducted 2 hours after eating.
- HbA1c Test: Reflects average blood sugar levels over the last 3 months.
- Random Blood Sugar Test: Can be conducted at any time of the day.
- Insulin Resistance Test: Used to detect prediabetes or metabolic syndrome.
How Is Diabetes Testing Performed in Laboratories?
Diabetes testing in laboratories usually follows these basic steps:
- Sample Collection: A blood sample is collected, typically from a vein.
- Measuring Blood Glucose: Glucose levels are measured using a glucose meter, or the sample is sent to the lab for precise analysis.
- Result Analysis: Once glucose levels are measured, the results are compiled and presented to the doctor or patient, usually in a report showing numerical values and reference ranges.
Difference Between Fasting and Postprandial Glucose Tests
- Fasting Blood Glucose Test: Shows how the body regulates sugar in the absence of food.
- Normal Result: Less than 100 mg/dL.
- Postprandial (After Meal) Glucose Test: Assesses the body’s response to glucose after eating.
- Normal Result: Less than 140 mg/dL two hours after a meal.
The difference between these tests reveals how effectively the body uses insulin and regulates sugar.
Learn more about: Causes and Errors in Medical Tests in Saudi Arabia | How to Avoid Them
How to Choose the Best Laboratory for Diabetes Testing
When choosing a lab, ensure:
- Accreditation by the Saudi Ministry of Health
- Accuracy of equipment and techniques used
- Fast result delivery
- Transparent pricing
Advanced Cell Labs is considered one of the best laboratories in Saudi Arabia for diabetes testing due to its high accuracy and excellent customer service.
Also read about: Best COVID-19 PCR Testing Laboratory in Saudi Arabia | Fast Travel Tests
Factors Affecting Accuracy of Diabetes Tests
- Not fasting before a fasting glucose test
- Taking medications affecting glucose levels
- Temporary illness or stress
- Poor sterilization of equipment
It is recommended to perform the test in reliable laboratories under medical supervision.
FAQs About Diabetes Testing in Saudi Arabia
1. How much does a diabetes test cost?
Prices vary depending on the type of test and lab, typically ranging from 40 to 150 SAR. Advanced Cell Labs offers periodic discounts on tests.
2. Can home glucose testing be relied upon?
Home testing is useful for daily monitoring, but it does not replace precise lab tests that use advanced devices and provide more reliable results.
3. What is the best time for a glucose test?
The best time for a fasting glucose test is in the morning after at least 8 hours of fasting, while postprandial testing is done 2 hours after a carbohydrate-containing meal.
How to Get a Medical Consultation for Your Diabetes Test Results
After receiving the results, it is advisable to consult a specialist doctor or laboratory expert to interpret the numbers and guide you in making the right decisions. Advanced Cell Labs provides free consultation services when receiving your results.
