what test shows a1c

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 is commonly used to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes, as well as to monitor how well your diabetes is being managed.

Key Points:

• What it measures: The percentage of your red blood cells that have sugar-coated hemoglobin.
• Why it's important: It provides a long-term view of blood sugar control, unlike daily glucose tests that only show a snapshot.
• How it works: Glucose attaches to hemoglobin in red blood cells, and since these cells regenerate every 3 months, the A1C test reflects your average blood sugar over that period.

For more details, you can visit the CDC's A1C Test page.