1. Introduction

It is important you do a blood sugar test if:

• You are overweight
• You are unexpectedly losing weight but eating more
• Your parents have diabetes
• You experience unusual thirst, tiredness or pass a lot of urine
• You frequently have sores or infections
• You become pregnant

A high blood sugar level could mean you have diabetes. Diabetes does occur in children and teenagers although it is more common in older adults.

Many people with diabetes feel well and only realize they have this illness when they do a blood sugar test.

2. How can you get this test done? There are two ways the test can be done: A small needle prick at the tip of your finger will draw a drop of blood. This drop is placed on a strip of special paper and inserted into a small machine called a glucometer. In a few seconds you will know your blood sugar level A larger needle inserted into a blood vessel in your arm will draw a few milliliters (a teaspoon) of blood. This is sent in a special bottle to a laboratory. You could get the result in a few hours or a day later

You can take the test at any time of the day at your convenience. It can be done before or after a meal.

3. Where can you get tested?

You can get the test done at:

• Your family doctor’s clinic
• Any government polyclinic or health centre
• All hospitals
• A private laboratory

4. What is a bad result?

• A result below 7 mmol/l means you do not have diabetes. You could still develop diabetes later. It is a good practice to test your blood sugar once a year
• A result above 7 mmol/l could mean you may have diabetes. Your doctor will ask for further blood sugar tests to confirm this

5. What do you do if you have diabetes?

A lot of people with diabetes live a normal, healthy life. Learn all about diabetes and meet your doctor regularly. Together you will be able to manage your condition successfully.

6. Can you prevent diabetes?

There are 2 types of diabetes:

Type I:: This usually occurs when you are young and you will need to take injections of insulin throughout your life. At the present time it cannot be prevented.

Type II:: This is much more common and is related to your lifestyle. Adopting a healthy lifestyle can delay diabetes and you may prevent it by:

• Exercise daily
• Sugary foods
• Get your weight into the Ideal range