how accurate is a1c test

The A1C test is generally considered a reliable measure of average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. However, its accuracy can be influenced by several factors:

• Conditions Affecting Red Blood Cells: Conditions like anemia, sickle cell anemia, or recent blood transfusions can affect A1C results.
• Kidney or Liver Disease: These conditions may alter the lifespan of red blood cells, impacting A1C accuracy.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as opioids or HIV drugs, can interfere with the test.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also affect A1C levels.

For most people, the A1C test is accurate within a range of ±0.5% of the true value. However, it's important to discuss any potential confounding factors with your healthcare provider to ensure accurate interpretation of your results.