Diabetes Screening in Singapore

Diabetes is a serious disease affecting the lives of millions around the world. In order to prevent and treat this condition appropriately, individuals aged 40 and above, especially those with diabetes risk factors, are recommended to visit a diabetes centre in Singapore and get tested every three years.

Individuals with an inactive lifestyle or have a family history of diabetes, as well as women who’ve experienced gestational diabetes, are advised to have their glucose levels checked earlier or more frequently as advised by the doctor. Risk factors also include insulin resistance and impaired glucose tolerance.

Diabetes screening in Singapore usually involves a blood glucose test, whereby a blood sample is obtained and analysed for glucose levels in the blood.

These tests are done to determine the type and severity of the condition, as well as formulate an appropriate diabetes treatment in Singapore for the individual.

The A1C test, also called the haemoglobin A1C or HbA1C, is a type of blood test that measures the patient’s average levels of blood glucose over the last 3 months. This test is one of the most common diabetes tests performed.

The fasting plasma glucose test is considered the simplest and most affordable means to measure blood glucose levels at a single time. This involves fasting from any food or drink (except water) for 8 to 12 hours before the test. A blood sample is obtained and assessed to determine glucose levels.

By measuring the patient’s blood sugar, a random glucose test can be taken at any time without the need to fast. This test also helps doctors decide whether to do further glucose testing for the patient.

The glucose tolerance test, also called the oral glucose test, measures the body’s response to sugar. This test is used to determine whether the patient has type 2 diabetes. Before a glucose tolerance test is administered, the patient is asked to fast the night before. On the actual test, he or she will be made to drink a liquid that has glucose and then his or her blood will be checked after 1 hour, 2 hours, and 3 hours to find out the fasting blood sugar level.

With our hectic modern lifestyles, coupled with the availability of high-fat and high-sugar food and beverages, diabetes has become one of the most common diseases around the globe. Individuals should seek medical attention if there are clear symptoms or risk factors of diabetes in order to get it diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

As a Singapore endocrinology clinic, Livingstone Endocrine offers a wide range of Singapore diabetes treatments. With our endocrinologist, Dr Tay Tunn Lin’s special expertise as well as interest in managing diabetes, the clinic offers a full suite of treatment and care, especially, in managing possible complications.

In addition, the clinic also specialises in the management of thyroid disorders, osteoporosis and calcium disorders, pituitary gland disorders, and other endocrine disorders. Call 6697 4954 to schedule an appointment today.