what is diabetes a1c

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. Here’s how it works:

• What it measures: The A1C test measures the percentage of your red blood cells that have sugar-coated hemoglobin. Higher blood sugar levels result in more sugar attaching to hemoglobin.
• Diagnosis ranges:
  • Normal: Below 5.7%
  • Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
  • Diabetes: 6.5% or above
• Why it’s important: The A1C test provides a long-term view of blood sugar control, unlike daily glucose checks, which only show a snapshot.

For people with diabetes, the goal is typically to keep A1C levels below 7%, though this may vary based on individual health factors.