In recent days, a wave of misleading news has been making the rounds on the internet, proclaiming: “Fasting blood sugar new standards announced, relaxed indicators, quickly look at your blood sugar report, maybe you’re not a diabetic.” This false narrative has spread like wildfire, causing unnecessary confusion among the public. What’s at stake here is a fundamental misunderstanding, as the originator has muddled the distinct concepts of normal blood sugar values, the precise criteria for diabetes diagnosis, and the specific blood sugar control benchmarks for those already diagnosed.
To set the record straight, normal blood glucose parameters are clearly defined. Fasting blood glucose, obtained through intravenous blood draw after an overnight fast of at least 8 to 10 hours (with only water consumption allowed), should fall within the range of 3.9 to 6.1 mmol/L. Meanwhile, two hours after a meal, the blood glucose level is considered normal if it’s less than 7.8 mmol/L. These figures have long been established and form the bedrock of initial health assessments.
Turning to diabetes diagnosis, the standards in China remain unchanged. As per the newly published Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes in China (2020 edition), which aligns with the World Health Organization’s 1999 criteria, a diagnosis can be made if a patient exhibits the classic diabetes symptoms (polyuria, polydipsia, and unexplained weight loss) along with one of the following: a fasting venous plasma glucose reading of at least 7.0 mmol/L, a venous plasma glucose of 11.1 mmol/L or higher two hours after a 75 g glucose load, or a random venous plasma glucose hitting 11.1 mmol/L. For those lacking the overt symptoms, a repeat test on another day is essential to confirm.
There exists a critical group straddling the line between normalcy and full-blown diabetes – individuals with impaired fasting blood sugar or glucose tolerance, often dubbed the “diabetes reserve army.” Their situation demands heightened vigilance and proactive measures. Through lifestyle modifications like balanced diets, regular exercise, and in some cases, targeted drug therapies, there’s a real chance of reversing the trajectory and restoring normal blood sugar levels.
Once diabetes is diagnosed, a comprehensive approach involving diet, exercise, and medication becomes non-negotiable. In China, for the majority of non-pregnant type 2 diabetes patients, the blood sugar control goals are well-established: fasting blood glucose between 4.4 and 7.0 mmol/L, non-fasting levels below 10 mmol/L, and glycosylated hemoglobin under 7%. Contrary to the online rumors, these are not newfangled standards but time-tested targets. However, it’s crucial to note the principle of individualization. Younger patients with shorter disease durations, no complications, and good overall health can strive for tighter control, while older patients with complex medical histories and a higher risk of hypoglycemia may be better served with more lenient goals, such as an HBA1c up to 8% or 8.5%.
In an age of rampant misinformation, it’s imperative that the public turns to trusted medical professionals in established hospitals rather than falling prey to baseless online claims. The consequences of misinterpreting or misapplying these standards could be dire, potentially delaying life-saving diagnoses and interventions. By relying on expert guidance, patients can navigate the complex terrain of diabetes management with confidence and precision.
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