Use two tests for diabetes control

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

A diabetes expert recommends the ongoing use of two tests for blood sugar in the quest for good management of diabetes.
In diabetes, good blood sugar (blood glucose) control is essential to managing the condition and reducing the risk of complications. Former president of the American Diabetes Association and head of Johns Hopkins Diabetes Center Dr Christopher Saudek says that this is best done by the consistent use of two tests - the self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) test and the hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test.

The SMBG test is the one patients carry out daily - sometimes several times a day - to give an immediate reflection of blood glucose levels. The HbA1c is performed in the doctor's office or clinic and gives a measure of long-term blood glucose control. This ought to be done every three to six months. Dr Saudek and his team have carried out a review of studies done between 1976 and 2005 which strongly suggests that both tests can help diabetics take control of their blood sugar and successfully manage their disease. The two tests are readily available - the point now is to make sure that they are used.

Source
Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions 13th April 2006

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