What is A1C and what does it measure?

The A1C test, also known as the hemoglobin A1C or HbA1c test, is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It does this by assessing the percentage of your red blood cells that have sugar-coated hemoglobin.

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

The A1C test is used to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes, as well as to monitor how well your diabetes is being managed over time. Unlike daily blood sugar checks, which provide a snapshot of your glucose levels at a single point in time, the A1C test gives a broader picture of your blood sugar control.