HbA1c
HbA1c, also known as glycated hemoglobin, is a blood test that provides an average measure of blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It's a simple blood test that doesn't require fasting and is used to diagnose diabetes, prediabetes, and monitor blood sugar control in individuals with diabetes.
What it measures:
HbA1c measures the percentage of red blood cells that have glucose attached to them, which indicates the average blood sugar level over time.
How it's used:
- Diagnose diabetes and prediabetes.
- Monitor blood sugar control in people with diabetes.
- Assess the effectiveness of diabetes treatment.
Normal ranges:
- Normal: Below 5.7%.
- Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%.
- Diabetes: 6.5% or higher.
No fasting required:
- Unlike some other blood sugar tests, you don't need to fast before an HbA1c test.
Frequency:
- The frequency of HbA1c testing depends on individual needs and can range from every 3-6 months to more frequently, especially after a diabetes diagnosis.