Fasting Blood Sugar Test Price in Bangladesh: 2025 Updated
The Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) Test, also known as the Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test (ফাস্টিং ব্লাড সুগার টেস্ট), is a simple yet critical medical test that measures glucose levels in your blood after fasting for 8 to 12 hours. This test is essential for diagnosing diabetes, prediabetes, and gestational diabetes, as well as monitoring blood sugar control in diabetic patients. It’s recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained weight loss, or those with risk factors such as obesity or a family history of diabetes. In Bangladesh, the Fasting Blood Sugar Test Price in Bangladesh typically ranges from 50 to 100 BDT in government hospitals and 200 to 250 BDT in private facilities, making it an accessible diagnostic tool. This article provides a detailed overview of the test, its importance, preparation, pricing, and more to help you make informed healthcare decisions.
What is a Fasting Blood Sugar Test?
The Fasting Blood Sugar Test measures the amount of glucose in your blood after an overnight fast, typically 8 to 12 hours. Glucose, derived from the carbohydrates in food, is the body’s primary energy source. In healthy individuals, insulin regulates blood glucose to maintain normal levels. However, in people with diabetes, the body either produces insufficient insulin or uses it ineffectively, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. The FBS test is crucial for:
- Diagnosing Diabetes: Identifies if blood glucose levels indicate diabetes or prediabetes.
- Screening for Gestational Diabetes: Monitors blood sugar in pregnant women.
- Monitoring Diabetes Management: Tracks how well blood sugar is controlled in diagnosed patients.
Alternative names for the test include Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG), Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG), or simply Blood Sugar Test.
When is a Fasting Blood Sugar Test Recommended?
A Fasting Blood Sugar Test is recommended for individuals with specific symptoms or risk factors, including:
- Symptoms of Diabetes: Increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, or slow-healing wounds.
- Risk Factors: Obesity, family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a sedentary lifestyle.
- Pregnancy: To screen for gestational diabetes, typically between 24 and 28 weeks.
- Routine Screening: For individuals over 35, as recommended by the American Diabetes Association.
- Monitoring: For those already diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes to assess treatment effectiveness.
Doctors use FBS results to diagnose diabetes (≥126 mg/dL or 7.0 mmol/L on two separate tests) or prediabetes (100-125 mg/dL or 5.6-6.9 mmol/L). The test is often part of routine checkups or included in panels like the Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP).
Fasting Blood Sugar Test Preparation
Proper preparation ensures accurate FBS test results. Here’s what you need to know:
- Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything except water for 8-12 hours before the test. This ensures your blood glucose reflects baseline levels.
- Medications: Continue taking prescribed medications unless your doctor advises otherwise. Inform your doctor about medications like corticosteroids or diuretics, which may affect results.
- Sample Collection: A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm, typically taking just a few minutes.
- Test Duration: The procedure is quick, usually completed in 5-10 minutes, with results available within hours to a day.
Fasting Blood Sugar Test Price List in Government Hospitals in Bangladesh
Government hospitals in Bangladesh offer the FBS test at highly affordable rates, typically around 60 BDT, based on available data from 2025. Below is a table of major government hospitals offering the test:
| Hospital Name | Location | Fasting Blood Sugar Test Price (BDT) | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dhaka Medical College Hospital | Dhaka | 60 | 02-22301122 |
| Chittagong Medical College Hospital | Chittagong | 60 | 031-2522600 |
| Rajshahi Medical College Hospital | Rajshahi | 60 | 0721-777777 |
| Mymensingh Medical College Hospital | Mymensingh | 60 | 091-67900 |
| Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital | Sylhet | 60 | 0821-722000 |
| Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) | Dhaka | 60 | 02-55165760 |
| Sir Salimullah Medical College Hospital | Dhaka | 60 | 02-7319041 |
Note: Prices are based on data from Chittagong Portal and may vary. Contact hospitals directly for confirmation.
Fasting Blood Sugar Test Price List in Private Hospitals in Bangladesh
Private hospitals and diagnostic centers charge higher prices for the FBS test, typically ranging from 200 to 250 BDT. Below is a table of prominent private facilities offering the test:
| Hospital/Diagnostic Center | Location | Fasting Blood Sugar Test Price (BDT) | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| Popular Diagnostic Centre Ltd. | Dhaka | 200 | 02-9553000 |
| Thyrocare Bangladesh Limited | Dhaka | 250 | 09666737373 |
| National Hospital | Chattogram | 200 | 01855-677500 |
| Square Hospitals Ltd. | Dhaka | 250 | 02-8836211 |
| United Hospital Ltd. | Dhaka | 250 | 02-8424000 |
| Labaid Hospital | Dhaka | 250 | 01766660333 |
| Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital & Research Institute | Dhaka | 250 | 02-8811190 |
| Apollo Hospitals Dhaka | Dhaka | 250 | 02-55005000 |
| Evercare Hospital Chattogram | Chattogram | 250 | 031-2522600 |
| Imperial Hospital Ltd. | Dhaka | 250 | 02-8833333 |
Note: Prices are approximate, based on data from Popular Diagnostic and Thyrocare Bangladesh. Verify with facilities for the latest rates.
Understanding Fasting Blood Sugar Test Results
FBS test results are interpreted as follows, based on CDC guidelines:
- Normal: 70-99 mg/dL (3.9-5.5 mmol/L).
- Prediabetes: 100-125 mg/dL (5.6-6.9 mmol/L).
- Diabetes: ≥126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L) on two separate tests.
Abnormal Results:
- High Levels: May indicate diabetes, prediabetes, or insulin resistance. Further tests like HbA1c or oral glucose tolerance test may be needed.
- Low Levels: Could suggest hypoglycemia, often due to diabetes medications, excessive insulin, or other conditions.
Factors Affecting Results:
- Medications (e.g., corticosteroids, beta-blockers).
- Stress, illness, or recent surgery.
- Pregnancy or hormonal changes.
Consult your doctor if results are abnormal to discuss further testing or treatment plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Fasting Blood Sugar Test accurate?
The FBS test is highly reliable when fasting instructions are followed. Accuracy may be affected by medications, stress, or improper fasting, so adhere to preparation guidelines.
How long does it take to get FBS test results?
Results are typically available within a few hours to a day, depending on the laboratory’s processing time.
Does health insurance cover the FBS test in Bangladesh?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. Some plans cover the test if medically necessary, especially for diabetes management. Check with your provider for details.
How often should I get an FBS test?
Frequency depends on your health status. Diabetic patients may need regular testing, while those at risk may require annual or biennial tests, as advised by a doctor.
What’s the difference between FBS and Random Blood Sugar (RBS) tests?
The FBS test requires 8-12 hours of fasting for accurate baseline glucose levels, while the RBS test measures glucose at any time, used for quick screening or monitoring.
Can I eat or drink before the FBS test?
No, you must fast for 8-12 hours, consuming only water to ensure accurate results.
What should I do if my FBS results are abnormal?
Consult your doctor for further evaluation. They may recommend additional tests or lifestyle changes to manage blood sugar levels.
Conclusion
The Fasting Blood Sugar Test is a vital diagnostic tool for detecting and managing diabetes, prediabetes, and gestational diabetes. In Bangladesh, it’s widely available at affordable prices, ranging from 60 BDT in government hospitals to 200-250 BDT in private facilities. Comparing prices across hospitals can help you find cost-effective options without compromising quality. For accurate results and personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider to determine if an FBS test is necessary. Early detection through the Fasting Blood Sugar Test Price in Bangladesh can lead to timely interventions, improving your health and quality of life.
