The 2-hour plasma glucose test is part of an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) used to assess how well the body processes glucose. It is primarily used to diagnose diabetes mellitus and prediabetes. The test measures blood glucose levels exactly 2 hours after consuming 75 grams of glucose.

Factors increasing risk of abnormal results:

• • Family history of diabetes.
  • Obesity or overweight.
  • Sedentary lifestyle.
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
  • History of gestational diabetes.
  • Hypertension or dyslipidemia.

Health Implications:

• • Prediabetes increases the likelihood of developing diabetes and cardiovascular complications.
  • Untreated diabetes can lead to complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, and cardiovascular disease.

Normal: <140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)

Prediabetes (Impaired Glucose Tolerance): 140–199 mg/dL (7.8–11.0 mmol/L)

Diabetes: ≥200 mg/dL (11.1 mmol/L)

1. <140 mg/dL:

   • Indicates normal glucose metabolism.
   • Low risk of diabetes.

2. 140–199 mg/dL:

   • Suggests prediabetes (impaired glucose tolerance).
   • Increased risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

3. ≥200 mg/dL:

   • Diagnostic of diabetes mellitus, especially if confirmed by another test (e.g., fasting glucose or HbA1c).
   • May require further evaluation for treatment and management.

Sample Type:

• Plasma:
  Blood is drawn and plasma is separated for glucose measurement.
• Collection method: Venipuncture after fasting overnight (for baseline glucose) and then 2 hours after ingesting 75 grams of glucose.