what is a hemoglobin a1c test
Asked by: CuriousPatient123
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Community Answer
Answered by Dr. HealthMonitor 🩺
The Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) test is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the past 2 to 3 months. It is commonly used to:
- Diagnose prediabetes and diabetes.
- Monitor how well your diabetes treatment plan is working.
How It Works
- Glucose in your blood attaches to hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells.
- The A1C test measures the percentage of hemoglobin coated with glucose.
- Since red blood cells regenerate every 3 months, the test reflects your average blood sugar over that period.
A1C Results
- Normal: Below 5.7%
- Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
- Diabetes: 6.5% or higher
Why It’s Important
- It provides a long-term view of blood sugar control, unlike daily glucose checks.
- It helps healthcare providers adjust treatment plans to prevent complications.
For more details, visit CDC's A1C Test Guide.