What test is commonly used to diagnose diabetes?

The Hemoglobin A1c test is commonly used to diagnose diabetes because it measures the average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months. This test provides a broader picture of blood glucose control compared to a single blood sugar test. It is particularly valuable because it helps to identify individuals who may have prediabetes or have episodes of hyperglycemia that might not be apparent at the moment a blood sample is taken.

Using this test, healthcare providers can determine whether a patient has diabetes based on specific threshold values. An A1c level of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes, while values between 5.7% and 6.4% suggest prediabetes. This long-term view allows for better management of diabetes and assessment of treatment efficacy.

In contrast, the other tests listed do not measure glucose levels directly over time, nor do they provide specific insights into the diagnosis of diabetes. Blood pressure tests assess cardiovascular health, cholesterol tests evaluate lipid levels, and liver function tests measure enzymes and proteins related to liver health. While all are important for overall health, they do not serve the primary purpose of diagnosing diabetes like the Hemoglobin A1c test does.