What does FPG mean in ONCOLOGY

Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) is a blood test that measures the amount of glucose in your blood after you have not eaten anything for at least 8 hours. This test helps to diagnose prediabetes or diabetes as part of a health checkup.

To ensure accurate results, you must fast for 8-10 hours before your FPG test. Avoid eating or drinking anything other than water during this time. It is important to talk to your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some can affect the accuracy of the results of the test.

An FPG test may be recommended if you display certain symptoms associated with diabetes, such as frequent urination and excessive thirst. Your doctor may also recommend an FPG if you have risk factors for diabetes, such as obesity or family history. In addition, it is recommended that all adults over age 45 receive an annual screening with an FPG test.

According to guidelines set by the American Diabetes Association, a normal fasting plasma glucose level should be less than 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). If your result is higher than 100 mg/dL but lower than 126 mg/dL, it indicates pre-diabetes, and a result higher than 126 mg/dL indicates diabetes.

You can drink water before an FPG test, however it’s best to limit water intake right before taking the test as these results can affect its accuracy. Generally speaking, it’s better not to consume any food or drinks other than water 8-10 hours prior to taking the test.

Depending on your individual medical history and current health status, your doctor might order other tests alongside an FPG including hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), random blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance testing (OGTT), and more specialized tests like advanced glycation end products (AGEs).

Yes – exercise can lower your blood sugar levels so it’s best that you avoid strenuous activity at least 24 hours prior to having this test performed. However low impact activities such as walking are usually acceptable prior to testing.