Is hemoglobin A1c the same as hemoglobin?

No, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is not the same as hemoglobin. Here’s the difference:

• Hemoglobin: A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.
• Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c): A form of hemoglobin that is chemically linked to glucose. It reflects your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months and is used to diagnose and monitor diabetes.

While hemoglobin is essential for oxygen transport, HbA1c is specifically used to measure long-term blood sugar control.