what does hba1c measure
Asked by: CuriousPatient123
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Community Answer
Answered by Dr. HealthMetrics 🩺
The HbA1c test, also known as the hemoglobin A1c or glycated hemoglobin test, measures your average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the past 2 to 3 months. Here's how it works:
- Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
- When glucose enters your bloodstream, it attaches to hemoglobin, forming glycated hemoglobin.
- The HbA1c test calculates the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with glucose.
Key Points:
- Normal Range: Below 5.7%
- Prediabetes Range: 5.7% to 6.4%
- Diabetes Range: 6.5% or higher
This test is commonly used to:
- Diagnose prediabetes and diabetes.
- Monitor how well diabetes is being managed over time.
For more details, visit CDC's A1C Test Guide.