Hemoglobin A1c Test

Overview:
Hemoglobin A1c is a blood test used to determine how well a patient is controlling his or her diabetes. It is important for patients with diabetes to test their hemoglobin A1c (also known as blood sugar) levels several times a year.

Detailed Information:
Hemoglobin is a protein found in the red blood cells. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is hemoglobin that carries glucose. The amount of HbA1c in the body is directly related to the amount of glucose in the body. In patients with diabetes, HbA1c levels should be measured every few months to monitor the amount of glucose in the blood. High levels (over 8 percent) indicate that diabetes is not under control.

If you have type 1 or 2 diabetes and use insulin, you should have your HbA1c levels measured 4 times a year. If you have type 2 diabetes and do not use insulin, 2 times is sufficient.

Normal, non-diabetic levels of HbA1c are 4-6 percent. For patients with diabetes, levels as close to 6 percent as possible are desirable. Patients with levels under 7 percent remain healthier longer than those with levels surpassing 8 percent. If your level is higher than 8 percent, you should probably adjust your treatment.

For more information on blood tests in general, click here.

Last updated: 28-Jul-08