Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Screening Panel

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Glucose Tolerance Test 2 Specimens 75g

2 Hour Specimen

Fasting Specimen

Also known as: A1c, Glycated Hemoglobin, Glycohemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, HA1c, HbA1c, Hemoglobin A1c, Hemoglobin A1c HgbA1C, Hgb A1c

Hemoglobin A1c

The A1c test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein found inside red blood cells (RBCs). There are several types of normal hemoglobin, but the predominant form – about 95-98% – is hemoglobin A. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin A. The hemoglobin molecules with attached glucose are called glycated hemoglobin. The higher the concentration of glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. Once the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell – normally about 120 days. The predominant form of glycated hemoglobin is referred to as HbA1c or A1c. A1c is produced on a daily basis and slowly cleared from the blood as older RBCs die and younger RBCs (with non-glycated hemoglobin) take their place. This test is used to monitor treatment in someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes. It helps to evaluate how well their glucose levels have been controlled by treatment over time. This test may be used to screen for and diagnose diabetes or risk of developing diabetes. In 2010, clinical practice guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) stated that A1c may be added to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as an option for diabetes screening and diagnosis. For monitoring purposes, an A1c of less than 7% indicates good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics. However, in 2012, the ADA and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) issued a position statement recommending that the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes be more "patient-centered." Data from recent studies have shown that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause complications and that people with risk of severe hypoglycemia, underlying health conditions, complications, and a limited life expectancy do not necessarily benefit from having a stringent goal of less than 7% for their A1c. The statement recommends that people work closely with their doctor to select a goal that reflects each person's individual health status and that balances risks and benefits.
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The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Screening Panel panel contains 2 tests with 3 biomarkers.

Brief Description: The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Screening Panel is a critical tool in the early identification and management of prediabetes and diabetes. This panel utilizes targeted tests to evaluate an individual's blood sugar levels and their body's ability to process glucose over time. By accurately assessing these factors, the panel helps healthcare providers detect early signs of glycemic control issues, enabling timely intervention that can prevent the onset of diabetes or manage it effectively in its initial stages.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Whole Blood and Serum

Test Preparation: Fasting for at least 8 hours is required.

When and Why the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Screening Panel May Be Ordered

The DPP Screening Panel is primarily ordered for individuals who have risk factors for diabetes, such as obesity, high blood pressure, a family history of diabetes, or signs of insulin resistance like darkened skin patches (acanthosis nigricans). It may also be recommended for those who have shown slightly elevated blood sugar levels in routine tests or who exhibit symptoms suggesting high blood sugar, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. This panel is instrumental in guiding interventions that could halt the progression of diabetes or manage its symptoms effectively.

What the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Screening Panel Checks For

The DPP Screening Panel includes two critical tests that provide a comprehensive view of an individual's glucose metabolism:

  • 2 Specimen Glucose Tolerance Test: This test measures the body's ability to metabolize glucose after a glucose-rich drink is consumed. Blood sugar levels are tested initially and two hours after consumption. The response indicates how efficiently the body processes glucose, with impaired glucose processing suggesting potential prediabetes or diabetes.

  • Hemoglobin A1c: Hemoglobin A1c levels reflect the average blood glucose concentration over the past three months. This test provides a longer-term view of blood sugar levels, indicating whether they have generally been within a healthy range or if there are reasons for concern over glycemic control.

Conditions and Diseases Detected by the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Screening Panel

The DPP Screening Panel is crucial for identifying and managing:

  • Prediabetes: This is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. Prediabetes is often a precursor to type 2 diabetes but can be managed or reversed with lifestyle changes. Early detection via the glucose tolerance test and A1c levels can facilitate interventions that prevent the progression to diabetes.

  • Type 2 Diabetes: A chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood glucose. Early diagnosis through this panel allows for prompt management, which can include lifestyle modifications, monitoring, and medication to control blood sugar levels and prevent complications.

Using the Results of the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Screening Panel

Healthcare professionals use the results from the DPP Screening Panel to:

  • Initiate Lifestyle Modifications: For individuals with prediabetes or borderline results, changes in diet, physical activity, and weight management can be recommended to prevent the onset of diabetes.

  • Guide Pharmacological Treatment: For those diagnosed with diabetes, medications may be prescribed to help control blood sugar levels, alongside lifestyle adjustments.

  • Monitor Disease Progression and Treatment Efficacy: Regular follow-up with this panel can help track the effectiveness of the implemented strategies and make adjustments as needed.

The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Screening Panel is an essential component of modern healthcare strategies aimed at combating the increasing prevalence of diabetes. By providing early detection and facilitating timely and effective interventions, this panel not only helps prevent the onset of diabetes but also aids in the optimal management of those already affected by this condition. In doing so, it significantly contributes to improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results

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