what does hemoglobin a1c measure
Asked by: CuriousPatient123
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Community Answer
Answered by Dr. HealthMetrics 🩺
The Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) test measures your average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the past 2 to 3 months. Here's how it works:
- Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
- When glucose enters your bloodstream, it attaches to hemoglobin, forming glycated hemoglobin.
- The A1C test calculates the percentage of your red blood cells that have glucose-coated hemoglobin.
Key Points:
- Normal A1C: Below 5.7%
- Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
- Diabetes: 6.5% or higher
The test is used to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes, as well as to monitor how well your diabetes is being managed over time.