According to the American Diabetes Association, what is the fasting plasma sugar level that indicates the presence of diabetes mellitus?

The fasting plasma sugar level of 126 mg/dl is the threshold that indicates the presence of diabetes mellitus, according to the American Diabetes Association. This value is derived from standardized diagnostic criteria that determine the cut-off point for diagnosing diabetes. A fasting plasma glucose level at or above 126 mg/dl on two separate tests is a critical factor in the diagnosis, signalling that the body is not effectively managing glucose levels, which is a key characteristic of diabetes.

The other values provided are below the diagnostic threshold for diabetes; they're considered to fall within the range of normal glucose levels or indicate prediabetes. Therefore, 126 mg/dl stands out as the definitive level for diagnosing diabetes mellitus.