A1C for Blood Sugar

 Hemoglobin (HgB) is the pigment in red blood cells. When blood sugar is high, an altered form of sugar attaches to hemoglobin, thereby forming HgBA1c.

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a blood test measuring average blood sugar control over 3 months.  HgBA1c reflects the average blood sugar over three months because red blood cells live in circulation for about 90 days. It is essential for diagnosing and managing diabetes. HbA1c measures the percentage of hemoglobin molecules bound to glucose. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
Interpretation:
Normal: <5.7% - Prediabetes: 5.7-6.4% - Diabetes: ≥6.5%HgBA1c of 5.7% equals an average blood sugar of 117 mg/dl, while 10% equals 240 mg/dl.

Why is HbA1c important? 1. Diagnosis of diabetes and prediabetes 2. Monitor blood sugar control 3. Identifies risk for complications (e.g., kidney damage, nerve damage) 4. Guiding treatment adjustments

 
Target HbA1c levels: - American Diabetes Association (ADA): <7% - American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE): <6.5%
When to test HbA1c: 1. Initially, upon diabetes diagnosis 2. Every 3-6 months for monitoring 3. More frequently for uncontrolled diabetes or medication changes
 
Discuss HbA1c results with a HCP such as an Endocrinologist to understand  individual goals and develop a personalized treatment plan.
 
Understanding A1c – T1D Toolkit

 

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