Diabetes is a metabolic disease that is identified by high blood sugar, also called hyperglycemia. A diabetes test checks your blood sugar to measure your glucose levels, which can help your doctor diagnose prediabetes, type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes.
Prediabetes is when blood glucose levels are higher than normal, which puts you at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, and is associated with long-term damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart and blood vessels. Screening allows it to be discovered sooner so you can treat and manage the condition. There’s no cure for type 2 diabetes, but medical treatment, weight management, nutrition and exercise can moderate its effects.
Gestational diabetes is a form of type 2 diabetes that sometimes develops during pregnancy. It must be diagnosed and controlled to protect the baby’s growth and development.