Community Answer

Answered by Dr. Emily 🩺

HbA1c, or Hemoglobin A1c, is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the past 2 to 3 months. It is also known as the A1C test or glycated hemoglobin test. Here’s how it works:

  • How it works: Glucose in your blood attaches to hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells. The A1C test measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with sugar.
  • Purpose: It is used to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes, and to monitor how well you are managing your diabetes over time.
  • Normal ranges:
    • Normal: Below 5.7%
    • Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
    • Diabetes: 6.5% or higher

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

Last updated: 1/12/2025

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