Community Answer

Answered by Dr. HealthMonitor 🩺

Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) is a blood test that measures the average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the past 2 to 3 months. It works by measuring the percentage of hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells) that is coated with sugar (glycated).

  • How it works: When glucose enters the bloodstream, it attaches to hemoglobin. The A1C test measures the percentage of hemoglobin that has glucose attached to it.
  • Purpose: It is used to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes, as well as to monitor how well blood sugar levels are being managed over time.
  • Normal ranges:
    • Normal: Below 5.7%
    • Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
    • Diabetes: 6.5% or above

This test is particularly useful because it provides a long-term view of blood sugar levels, unlike daily glucose tests which only show a snapshot.

Last updated: 1/12/2025

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