what is hemoglobin glycosylated

Hemoglobin glycosylated, also known as glycated hemoglobin or HbA1c, refers to hemoglobin that has glucose attached to it. This process occurs naturally when glucose in the bloodstream binds to hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells. The amount of glycated hemoglobin reflects the average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, as red blood cells have a lifespan of about 3 months.

Key Points:

• Purpose: The HbA1c test is used to diagnose and monitor diabetes and prediabetes.
• Normal Range: Below 5.7%
• Prediabetes Range: 5.7% to 6.4%
• Diabetes Range: 6.5% or above

This test is particularly useful because it provides a long-term view of blood sugar control, unlike daily blood sugar tests that only show a snapshot of glucose levels at a single point in time.