what does hemoglobin a1c mean in a blood test

The Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) test is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2 to 3 months. Here's what it means:

• What it measures: The test measures the percentage of your red blood cells that have sugar-coated hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
• Why it's important: It helps diagnose prediabetes and diabetes, and monitors how well you're managing your blood sugar if you have diabetes.
• Normal ranges:
  • Normal: Below 5.7%
  • Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
  • Diabetes: 6.5% or above

This test is different from daily blood sugar checks, as it provides a long-term view of your blood sugar control.