what is a hba1c level

The HbA1c level (Hemoglobin A1c) is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the past 2 to 3 months. It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor diabetes and prediabetes.

Key Points:

• Normal: Below 5.7%
• Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.5% or above

The test works by measuring the percentage of hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells) that is coated with sugar. Since red blood cells regenerate every 3 months, the HbA1c test provides a long-term view of blood sugar control.

Why It's Important:

• It helps diagnose diabetes and prediabetes.
• It monitors how well diabetes is being managed over time.
• It can estimate your average blood sugar levels (e.g., an HbA1c of 7% corresponds to an average blood sugar of 154 mg/dL).

For more details, visit CDC's A1C Test Guide.