what is hemoglobin aic

Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) is a blood test that measures the average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the past 2 to 3 months. It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor diabetes and prediabetes. Here’s how it works:

• How It Works: Glucose in the blood attaches to hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells. The A1C test measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with glucose. Since red blood cells regenerate every 3 months, the test reflects your average blood sugar levels over that period.

• Normal Ranges:

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

• Why It’s Important: The A1C test provides a long-term view of blood sugar control, unlike daily glucose tests, which only show a snapshot of your blood sugar at a single point in time.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the CDC's guide on A1C testing.