FASTING REQUIRED

Diabetes (diabetes mellitus) is a chronic condition in which the body has too much glucose (sugar) in the blood because it either does not make enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that helps move glucose from the blood into cells, where it is used for energy.

When blood sugar remains high over time, it can damage blood vessels, nerves, and organs.

Types of diabetes

1. Type 1 Diabetes

• An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

• The body produces little or no insulin.

• Often develops in childhood or young adulthood but can occur at any age.

• Requires insulin therapy.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

• The most common type of diabetes.

• The body becomes resistant to insulin and may eventually not produce enough insulin.

• Risk increases with factors such as genetics, age, excess body weight, and physical inactivity.

• Managed with lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes insulin.

3. Gestational Diabetes

• Diabetes that develops during pregnancy.

• Usually improves after delivery but increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Common symptoms of diabetes

• Increased thirst

• Frequent urination

• Increased hunger

• Unexplained weight loss

• Fatigue

• Blurred vision

• Slow-healing cuts or wounds

• Frequent infections

• Tingling or numbness in hands or feet

Tests used to diagnose and monitor diabetes and included in Panel includes:

• Fasting Blood Glucose: Measures blood sugar after fasting.

• Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c): Shows average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months.