how a1c is calculated
Asked by: CuriousPatient
Community Answer
Answered by Dr. HealthMetrics
The A1C test measures the percentage of your red blood cells that have sugar-coated hemoglobin. Here’s how it works:
- Hemoglobin and Glucose Binding: When glucose enters your bloodstream, it attaches to hemoglobin, a protein in your red blood cells.
- Measurement Over Time: Since red blood cells regenerate every 3 months, the A1C test reflects your average blood sugar levels over that period.
- Percentage Calculation: The test calculates the percentage of hemoglobin that is glycated (coated with sugar). For example, an A1C of 6% means that 6% of your hemoglobin is glycated.
A1C Ranges:
A1C % Blood Sugar Level
Below 5.7% Normal 5.7% - 6.4% Prediabetes 6.5% or above Diabetes
This test is a key tool for diagnosing and managing diabetes and prediabetes.