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What is HbA1c Test?

The HbA1c test is used to diagnose type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It helps to monitor how well you are managing blood sugar levels. The HbA1c test is also called the glycated hemoglobin, glycosylated hemoglobin, hemoglobin A1C or A1C test.

HbA1c test results show the average blood sugar level for the past 2-3 months. The test measures the percentage of red blood cells containing hemoglobin coated with sugar.

The higher the HbA1c levels means that the blood sugar control is poor and there is higher risk of diabetes complications.

What is The Purpose of the HbA1c Test?

The HbA1c test may help the healthcare provider to:

1. Diagnose Prediabetes
2. Diagnose Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes
3. Monitor diabetes

When Does one need an HbA1c Test?

The frequency of HbA1C test depends on your diabetes type, treatment regimen, and adherence to treatment goals. The HbA1c test may be recommended:

1. If you are pre-diabetic, an HbA1C test is typically advised annually.
2. If you're not using insulin and consistently maintain your blood sugar within the target range, the test is usually done biannually.
3. For those on insulin or struggling to control blood sugar within the target range, the test is often recommended quarterly.
4. Additional HbA1C tests may be recommended by a doctor if there are changes to your diabetes treatment plan or if new diabetes medications are initiated.

What Preparations are Required for HbA1c Test?

The HbA1C test is a routine blood test that doesn't require fasting. Therefore, you can eat and drink as usual before undergoing the test.

Interpreting HbA1c Test results

The HbA1C test measures blood sugar levels and is shown as a percentage. If the percentage is higher, it means the average blood sugar is higher. Here's what the results mean:

1. Below 5.7% is normal.
2. Between 5.7% to 6.4% means you have prediabetes.
3. 6.5% or higher on two HbA1c test values means you have diabetes. For most adults with diabetes, the goal is to keep their A1C level below 7%.

Factors that Affect HbA1c Levels

Certain factors may impact the levels of HbA1C test results, including:

1. Pregnancy
2. Recent or significant blood loss
3. Recent blood transfusion
4. Conditions causing low red blood cell count (anemias)
5. Variations in hemoglobin proteins: The primary oxygen-carrying hemoglobin protein is hemoglobin A. However, the presence of other hemoglobin variants can lead to inaccurate HbA1C test readings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hemoglobin?

When an individual breathes in oxygen, it goes into the blood. Hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells, carries this oxygen to all parts of the body through arteries. Then, it brings carbon dioxide back to the lungs through veins, so an individual can breathe it out and take in more oxygen.

What is Blood Sugar (Glucose)?

Blood sugar, also known as blood glucose, fuels body's cells, enabling them to function properly. It primarily comes from sugars, fiber, starches, and carbohydrates in diet. 

The pancreas releases insulin, a hormone that helps cells absorb blood sugar for energy or storage. This maintains a healthy blood sugar level. However, in diabetes, this process is disrupted, leading to persistently high blood sugar levels.

Do an Individual Need to Fast for HbA1c Test?

Fasting is not required for HbA1c test. The HbA1c test provides information about your average blood sugar levels over the past few months and does not require fasting.

What is The Normal HbA1c Range by Age?

HbA1c tests measure the percentage of sugar in your blood. For individuals without diabetes, the normal range is below 5.7%, and this remains consistent regardless of age.