what does hba1c measure

The HbA1c test, also known as the hemoglobin A1c or glycated hemoglobin test, measures your average blood sugar (glucose) levels over the past 2 to 3 months. Here's how it works:

• Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
• When glucose enters your bloodstream, it attaches to hemoglobin, forming glycated hemoglobin.
• The HbA1c test calculates the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with glucose.

Key Points:

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

This test is commonly used to:

1. Diagnose prediabetes and diabetes.
2. Monitor how well diabetes is being managed over time.

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