what is hb1ac
Asked by: CuriousPatient123
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Community Answer
Answered by Dr. SugarSense 🩺
HbA1c, or Hemoglobin A1c, is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the past 2 to 3 months. It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor diabetes and prediabetes.
How Does HbA1c Work?
- Glucose in your blood attaches to hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells.
- The HbA1c test measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with sugar.
- Since red blood cells regenerate every 3 months, the test reflects your average blood sugar levels over that period.
HbA1c Ranges:
- Normal: Below 5.7%
- Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
- Diabetes: 6.5% or higher
Why is HbA1c Important?
- It provides a long-term view of blood sugar control.
- It helps in managing diabetes and reducing the risk of complications.
For more details, consult your healthcare provider.