Common type 2 diabetes screening tests

Your GP may recommend that you are screened for type 2 diabetes, which includes prediabetes, if you are at risk.

These blood checks look at whether the level of glucose in your blood is above the target range. If your glucose level is above the target range, it means you have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Over time, having high blood glucose levels can have an impact on your health and may lead to diabetes-related complications.

Fasting blood glucose (FBG)

Fasting blood glucose (FBG) is a blood test that measures your blood glucose after 8 – 12 hours without food.

HbA1c

This is a blood test used to diagnose type 2 diabetes and to monitor diabetes. It measures the amount of glucose attached to your haemoglobin in your blood. HbA1c reflects your average blood glucose level over the last two to three months.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

An oral glucose test measures how your body processes a glucose drink.

You will need to fast before this screening, so people often book their appointment in the morning. After drinking the glucose solution, you will have one or more blood tests. This is considered the best test if you have risk factors, are pregnant, or have borderline results.

All diabetes screening tests should be interpreted by your GP and may need to be repeated.

Who should be screened for type 2 diabetes?

You can be screened for type 2 diabetes as part of your regular health checks. Your GP may recommend regular screening depending on your age, background, and risk factors. 

• Every three years from age 40 if you’re at risk
• Every  – one to two years if you have prediabetes or multiple risk factors
• Yearly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are 18 years or older
• Yearly if you’ve had gestational diabetes. 

Use the type 2 diabetes risk calculator to check if you are at risk.

What do my diabetes blood test results mean?

Talk to your GP to determine if your screening results fall outside the target range and to discuss your next steps. Even if your risk level is low, it’s important to maintain your health by living a healthy lifestyle.

You can discuss with your healthcare team how to improve your health. They can support you to find ways to lower your risk of type 2 diabetes. They can also help you to manage prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.