HbA1c

Why Get Tested?
To monitor a person's diabetes and to aid in treatment decisions.


When To Get Tested?
When first diagnosed with diabetes and then 2 to 4 times per year.


Sample Required?
A blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm or from a fingerprick.


What Is Being Tested?
The test measures the amount of hemoglobin that carries glucose molecules. By measureing HbA1c, you get an idea of the average amount of glucose in your blood over the last few months. As glucose circulates in your blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin (the red protein that carries oxygen in your red blood cells). This combination is called hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c). The amount of HbA1c formed is directly related to the amount of glucose in your blood. If your diabetes is not well controlled, your blood glucose levels are high, causing higher HbA1c levels. HbA1c levels do not change quickly since red cells live for 2-3 months. Because of this, the amount of HbA1c in your blood reflect the average amount of glucose in your blood during the last few months.


How Is The Sample Collected For Testing?
Your blood may be drawn from a vein in your arm or in some cases a drop of blood from a fingerprick may be used.


How Is It Used?
The test for HbA1c indicates how well you have controlled your diabetes over the last few months. Even though you may have some very high or very low blood glucose values, HbA1c will give you a picture of the average amount of glucose in your blood over that time period. The result can help you and your doctor know if the measures you are taking to control your diabetes are successful.


When Is It Ordered?
Depending on the type of diabetes that you have, how well your diabetes is controlled, and your doctor, your HbA1c may be measured 2 to 4 times each year. The American Diabetes Association recommends testing your HbA1c :

4 times each year if you have Type I or Type II diabetes and use insulin or
2 times each year if you have Type II diabetes and do not use insulin.

When someone is first diagnosed with diabetes or if control is not good, HbA1c may be ordered more frequently.


What Does The Test Result Mean?
A healthy person without diabetes will have an HbA1c between 4% and 6%. If you are diabetic, the closer your HbA1c is to 6% the better your diabetes in control. For every 1% increase in HbA1c, blood glucose increases approximately 30mg/dl and the risk of complications increases.

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