It’s no secret that our lives have changed dramatically over the last few months. This has meant that the ways in which we interact with and manage our health have been hugely disrupted. As many of us are unable, or hesitant, to see a doctor in person this year and the demand for health services are increasing exponentially, a more efficient method of testing for various health issues, such as diabetes, may be the optimal solution going forward.
What is Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks beta cells located in the pancreas and produces insulin. This can damage them, causing them to make little to no insulin which limits the regulation of the body’s glucose levels.
Type 2 diabetes can occur if there is an abnormal level of glucose in the blood (pre-diabetes) resulting in the body being unable to process insulin. It is caused by a mixture of genetics and lifestyle choices. 90% of people diagnosed with diabetes in the U.S. have type 2 diabetes [1].
Home Diabetes Testing
LetsGetChecked offers a solution that gives people back control of their health with at-home testing. Our home Diabetes Test measures your HbA1c levels which can help identify pre-diabetes or determine how well your existing diabetes is being controlled following diagnosis. It provides an estimate of your blood sugars over 2-3 months. HbA1c is made when glucose (or sugar) in your body sticks to your red blood cells. This can build up over time if your body is unable to use sugar properly.
The great thing about our testing solution is that you don’t have to leave the comfort and safety of home to take your sample. Simply order your Diabetes Test Kit from the LetsGetChecked website or app, self-collect your sample from home, and return it to the lab for analysis. Your results will be sent to your online account in just 2-5 days. This method is not only efficient, but it also allows you to stay safe inside throughout the testing process.
Did You Know?
When should you test for diabetes?
You should check up on your diabetes status if you already have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you have a family history of diabetes, or you are experiencing symptoms of diabetes.
What are the symptoms of diabetes?
- Urinating more than ten times a day
- Persistent thirst
- Feeling hungry even though you are eating a recommended calorie intake each day
- Chronic fatigue
- Dry eyes or blurred vision
- Dry mouth or tongue
- Itchy skin
- Unexpected weight loss (type 1 Diabetes)
- Pain or numbness in the hands (type 2 Diabetes)
If you choose an at-home Diabetes Test from LetsGetChecked, it’s important that you understand what your results mean. The percentage of HbA1c involves the amount of glycated hemoglobin in the blood. This refers to the red blood cells that have glucose (sugar) attached to them. A high HbA1c result, for example, means that you have too much sugar in your blood.
If you are concerned or have questions about your results, you can schedule a call with a member of the LetsGetChecked medical team at a time that is convenient for you at no additional cost. They can offer guidance and support whenever you need it.
References
