what does a1c test measure
Asked by: CuriousPatient123
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Community Answer
Answered by Dr. Emily 🩺
The A1C test (also known as the hemoglobin A1C or HbA1c test) measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2 to 3 months. Here’s how it works:
- Hemoglobin: A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
- Glucose Attachment: When sugar enters your bloodstream, it attaches to hemoglobin.
- Measurement: The A1C test calculates the percentage of your red blood cells that have sugar-coated hemoglobin.
This test is used to:
- Diagnose prediabetes and diabetes.
- Monitor how well your diabetes is being managed over time.
For example:
A1C Level Diagnosis
Below 5.7% Normal
5.7%–6.4% Prediabetes
6.5% or above Diabetes
It’s a valuable tool for understanding long-term blood sugar control, but it doesn’t replace daily blood sugar monitoring.