what does the hba1c measure

The HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c) test measures your average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the past 2 to 3 months. Here's how it works:

• Hemoglobin: A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
• Glucose Attachment: When sugar enters your bloodstream, it attaches to hemoglobin.
• Glycated Hemoglobin: The more glucose in your blood, the more hemoglobin gets coated with sugar (glycated).
• Measurement: The HbA1c test calculates the percentage of your red blood cells that have sugar-coated hemoglobin.

This test is used to:

• Diagnose prediabetes and diabetes.
• Monitor how well your diabetes is being managed over time.

Key Ranges:

HbA1c Level Diagnosis

Below 5.7% Normal
5.7%–6.4% Prediabetes
6.5% or above Diabetes

For people with diabetes, the goal is typically to keep HbA1c levels below 7% to reduce the risk of complications.