what is a a1c level

The A1C level (also known as HbA1c or hemoglobin A1C) 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, diabetes, and to monitor how well your diabetes is being managed.

Key Points:

• Normal A1C: Below 5.7%
• Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.5% or above

How It Works:

• The test measures the percentage of red blood cells that have sugar-coated hemoglobin.
• Since red blood cells regenerate every 3 months, the A1C test provides a long-term view of blood sugar control.

Why It’s Important:

• It helps in diagnosing diabetes and prediabetes.
• It is used to monitor the effectiveness of diabetes treatment plans.
• For most people with diabetes, the goal is to keep A1C levels below 7% to reduce the risk of complications.

Factors Affecting A1C Accuracy:

• Certain conditions like anemia, kidney disease, or blood disorders can affect the results.
• Always consult your doctor to interpret your A1C levels accurately.