HbA1C

Hemoglobin A1c or the glycated hemoglobin test measures the amount of glycated (glucose-bound) hemoglobin in your red blood cells. This indicates the average blood sugar levels over the past three months (life of the red blood cell is 120 days) and hence it is a better indicator of diabetes control. The higher the hemoglobin A1c, the higher your risk of having complications related to diabetes.

People who have diabetes need to get this test done regularly, to see if their levels are staying within range. It can also tell if you need to adjust your diabetes medicines. The HbA1c test is also used by doctors to diagnose diabetes.

Interpretations for Glycosylated Hemoglobin:

Normal: Below 5.7% (39 mmol/mol approx.)

Prediabetic: 5.7% - 6.4% (39 to 46 mmol/mol approx.)

Diabetic: Above 6.5% (above 48 mmol/mol approx.)

Less than 5.7% Glycated Hemoglobin indicates normal levels of blood sugar. Increased risk of developing Diabetes is found in Prediabetic patients with blood sugar level between 5.7% and 6.4%. Patients with HbA1c level greater than 6.5% are usually diagnosed with Diabetes.