what does a1c check

The A1C test (also known as the hemoglobin A1C or HbA1c test) is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2 to 3 months. It does this by checking the percentage of your red blood cells that have sugar-coated hemoglobin.

• Normal: Below 5.7%
• Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.5% or above

The A1C test is used to:

1. Diagnose prediabetes and diabetes.
2. Monitor how well your diabetes treatment plan is working.
3. Estimate your average blood sugar levels over time.

It’s a key tool for managing diabetes and understanding long-term blood sugar control.