what does a 1 c stand for
Asked by: CuriousPatient123
Community Answer
Answered by Dr. Emily Carter, MD
A1C stands for Hemoglobin A1C, also known as HbA1c. It is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the past 2 to 3 months. The test works by measuring the percentage of hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells) that is coated with sugar. This test is commonly used to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes, as well as to monitor how well diabetes is being managed over time.
- Normal A1C: Below 5.7%
- Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
- Diabetes: 6.5% or above
The A1C test is a key tool in diabetes care and helps healthcare providers assess long-term blood sugar control.