Diagnostic Test for Diabetes | The Medical City
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Center for Wellness and Aesthetics Institute
6/F Podium Bldg., The Medical City

For inquiries: (632) 8-988-1000 / 8-988-7000 loc. 6576
For scheduling: (632) 8-988-1000 / 8-988-7000 loc. 6386 / 6579
Fax Number: (632) 8-634-9399
Email Address: tmc_wcl@themedicalcity.com

Operating Hours:
Wellness and Aesthetics Institute (WAI - Outpatient):
Mondays to Saturdays, 7:00am to 5:00pm
Sundays and Holidays, Closed

Surgery Suite Aesthetics (WAI - SSA):
Mondays to Saturdays, 8:00am to 4:00pm
Sundays and Holidays, Closed

Wellness and Aesthetics Floor 7WA (Unit):
Mondays to Saturdays, 24 hours
Sundays and Holidays, By schedule

Endocrine, Diabetes, and Thyroid Center (EDTC)
2/F Podium Bldg., The Medical City

For Inquiries: (632) 8-988-1000 or (632) 8-988-7000 ext. 6611

Operating Hours:
Mondays to Fridays, 7:00am to 5:00pm
Saturdays, 7:00am to 12:00 noon


PATIENT SERVICES

Diabetes Testing in the Philippines


What Tests Are Used to Diagnose Diabetes?

There are several key diagnostic tests for diabetes, each measuring blood glucose levels in different ways:

  1. A1C Test: This test measures the average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months. It does not require fasting and is a common method for diagnosing diabetes.
      • Diagnosis Criteria
        o Normal: Less than 5.7%
        o Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
        o Diabetes: 6.5% or higher

  2. Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test: This test for diabetes measures blood sugar after fasting for at least eight hours (usually overnight). It is typically done in the morning.
      • Diagnosis Criteria
        o Normal: Less than 100 mg/dL
        o Prediabetes: 100 to 125 mg/dL
        o Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher

  3. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): This two-hour test checks blood glucose levels before and after consuming a sugary drink containing glucose. It assesses how well the body processes sugar.
      • Diagnosis Criteria:
        o Normal: Less than 140 mg/dL
        o Prediabetes: 140 to 199 mg/dL
        o Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher

  4. Random Plasma Glucose Test: This test measures blood sugar at any time of day, regardless of when you last ate. It is usually used when diabetes symptoms are present.
      • Diagnosis Criteria:
        o Diabetes: 200 mg/dL or higher

How Do I Know Which Test I Should Get for Diabetes?

Choosing the right diabetes test depends on your symptoms and risk factors. Here are key points:

  • Symptoms: If you have symptoms like excessive thirst or frequent urination, a Random Plasma Glucose Test may be recommended, which doesn’t require fasting.
  • Routine Screening: For those without symptoms but at risk (e.g., overweight, family history), the A1C Test is often suggested. It measures average blood glucose over the past two to three months and doesn’t require fasting.
  • Fasting Requirement: A Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test requires fasting for at least eight hours.
  • Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): This test is for pregnant women or if gestational diabetes is suspected; it involves fasting overnight and drinking a sugary solution.
  • Follow-Up Testing: Confirmatory testing is needed if initial results indicate prediabetes or diabetes.
  • Consult Your Doctor: Discuss your health history with your provider to determine the most appropriate test.

How is the A1C Lab Test for Diabetes Performed?

The A1C test involves taking a blood sample. The sample is then analyzed to determine the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with sugar (glycated hemoglobin). This percentage reflects average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months.

Is Fasting Required for All Diabetes Tests in the Philippines?

No, fasting is not required for the A1C test, making it convenient for many patients. However, fasting is necessary for the FPG and OGTT tests to ensure accurate measurements of blood glucose levels.

What Does a High A1C Level Indicate?

A high A1C level indicates that your average blood glucose levels have been elevated over the past few months, which can suggest diabetes or prediabetes. Specifically:

  • An A1C of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.
  • An A1C between 5.7% and 6.4% indicates prediabetes.

How Often Should I Get a Laboratory Test for Diabetes?

The frequency of testing depends on individual risk factors:

  • Adults aged 45 and older should be tested every three years.
  • Individuals with risk factors (such as obesity, family history of diabetes, or sedentary lifestyle) should discuss more frequent testing with their healthcare provider.
  • If diagnosed with prediabetes, testing should occur every one to two years.

What are the Symptoms That Might Prompt Diagnostic Testing for Diabetes?

Common symptoms that may indicate diabetes include:

  • Increased thirst and frequent urination
  • Extreme hunger
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing sores or frequent infections
  • Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor for testing.

Can I Take Diabetes Tests at Home?

While some home glucose testing kits are available in the Philippines (such as glucometers for checking blood sugar), formal diagnostic tests like the A1C test and OGTT are typically conducted in a hospital setting for accuracy and reliability. Home tests can be useful for monitoring but should not replace professional diagnosis.

What Happens If My Test Results Indicate Diabetes?

If your test results indicate diabetes, your healthcare provider will discuss treatment options, which may include lifestyle changes (diet and exercise), oral medications, or insulin therapy depending on the type of diabetes diagnosed (type 1, type 2, or gestational).

Are There Any Specific Tests for Gestational Diabetes?

Yes, gestational diabetes is typically screened using an initial glucose screening test followed by an OGTT if necessary. The screening usually occurs between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy.

How Do I Prepare for a Diabetes Test?

Preparing for a diabetes test depends on the specific type of test being conducted:

  1. Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test: You will need to fast for at least eight hours before the test. This means no food or drink except water during this time.
  2. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Similar to the FPG test, fasting for at least eight hours is required before the test. After fasting, you will drink a sugary solution, and blood samples will be taken at intervals to measure how your body processes glucose.
  3. A1C Test: No special preparation is needed for the A1C test; you can eat and drink normally before this test.
  4. General Tips:
      • Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some may affect blood sugar levels.
      • Stay hydrated by drinking water before the tests (except for fasting tests).
      • Discuss any recent illnesses or stressors with your doctor, as these can also impact results.

Screening packages at TMC's Endocrine, Diabetes, and Thyroid Center

TMC DIABETES SCREENING PANEL

  • 75gram OGTT (FBS and 2nd hour)
  • § H* HBA1C

TMC GESTATIONAL DIABETES SCREENING PANEL

  • 2hr. OGTT using 75 gram glucose

TMC COMPLETE DIABETES PANEL

  • Fasting blood sugar
  • HbA1C
  • Lipid profile
  • Serum creatinine
  • Microalbumin/Creatinine Ratio
  • Urinalysis
  • SGPT
  • Uric Acid
  • Complete Blood count
  • Chest X-ray
  • 12 Lead ECG
  • Fundus Photo
  • Diabetic Foot Diagnostic Examination
  • Diabetes Physical Therapy
  • Nutrition Counseling
  • Diabetes Education

TMC DIABETES CHEMISTRY PANEL

  • Fasting blood sugar
  • HbA1C
  • Lipid profile
  • Serum creatinine Ratio
  • Microalbumin/Creatinine Ratio
  • Urinalysis
  • SGPT
  • Uric Acid
  • Complete Blood count

TMC DIABETES CARE

    • Nutrition counseling
    • Diabetes Education
      o Getting to Know Diabetes
      o Living well with Diabetes: Managing Your Diabetes Daily and in Special Situations
      o The Truth About Insulin : Know More, Worry Less
      o Outsmart Diabetes: Diabetes Complications and How to Prevent Them
      o Overcoming Gestational diabetes
    • Diabetes Physical Therapy

PEDIATRIC TYPE 2DM SCREENING PANEL

  • FBS
  • HBA1C
  • Insulin
  • Lipid profile
  • SGPT
  • Uric Acid
  • And others

TMC PEDIATRIC TYPE 1 DIABETES PANEL - 1

  • FBS
  • HBA1C
  • Insulin
  • Urinalysis

TMC PEDIATRIC TYPE 1 DIABETES PANEL - 2

  • FBS
  • HBA1C
  • C-Peptide
  • Urinalysis

PEDIATRIC DM COMPLICATION SCREENING (not package)

  • TSH
  • FT4
  • Anti-thyroglobulin
  • Anti-thyroid peroxidase
  • Urine Micral
  • Creatinine
  • Cortisol (8am specimen)

Lifestyle Assessment and Management Program (LAMP)

Feeling anxious, sad or distressed about having a medical illness is common and may lead to poor quality of life. The Lifestyle Assessment and Management Program is especially designed to screen for emotional distress and to identify your particular difficulties in coping with Diabetes. It will only take 25 minutes of your time to answer the screening tests. The recommendations of our lifestyle management doctors will be discussed with you and conveyed to your physician.

Glycomark (1.5 anhydroglucitol)

Glycomark is a non-fasting blood test that measures a simple sugar called 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG for short). It is proven to measure 2 week average glucose spikes. It helps detects recent deterioration in glucose control, assess therapy effectiveness after change and reinforces positive adherence to therapy and lifestyle changes.

Diabetic Foot Diagnostic Examination

Even before the onset of signs and symptoms of foot problems, patients are encouraged to undergo Diabetic Foot Diagnostic Examination to identify risk factors. This is a comprehensive foot examination that includes inspection of the foot integrity. Bony deformities, joint mobility, and gait, the manner of walking and balance are also assessed. Monofilament testing to assess loss of sensation and determination of ankle brachial index to screen for peripheral artery disease are also done.

Fundus Photo

The Fundus Photography is a non-invasive and painless procedure which provides a basic retinal screening to rule out Diabetic Retinopathy. The Diabetes Center is equipped with Zeiss Visupac Fundus Camera which is considered as one of the best retinal diagnostics not only locally but also internationally.