how does anemia affect a1c

Anemia can affect A1C test results in several ways:

• Falsely Elevated A1C: Certain types of anemia, such as iron-deficiency anemia, can lead to falsely elevated A1C levels. This happens because the lifespan of red blood cells is shortened, leading to a higher proportion of glycated hemoglobin.
• Falsely Lowered A1C: In cases of hemolytic anemia or other conditions where red blood cells are destroyed prematurely, A1C levels may appear lower than they actually are.

If you have anemia or a blood disorder, inform your healthcare provider before taking an A1C test. They may recommend alternative methods to assess your blood sugar levels.