what is a1c diabetes

The A1C test, also known as the hemoglobin A1C or HbA1c test, is a blood test used to diagnose and monitor diabetes and prediabetes. It measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months by assessing the percentage of hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells) that is coated with sugar (glycated hemoglobin).

Key Points:

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

Why is it important?

• It provides a long-term view of blood sugar control.
• It helps in diagnosing diabetes and prediabetes.
• It is used to monitor how well diabetes is being managed over time.

For people with diabetes, the goal is typically to keep the A1C level below 7%, but this may vary based on individual health conditions.