Understanding The Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) Test

A hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) test is a blood test that shows your average level of Blood Glucose, also called blood sugar, over the past two to three months.

Glucose is a type of sugar in your blood that comes from the foods you eat. Your cells use glucose for energy. A hormone called insulin helps glucose get into your cells. If you have diabetes, your body doesn't make enough insulin, or your cells don't use it well. As a result, glucose can't get into your cells, so your blood glucose levels increase.

Glucose in your blood sticks to hemoglobin, a protein in your red blood cells. As your blood glucose levels increase, more of your hemoglobin will be coated with glucose. An A1C test measures the percentage of your red blood cells that have glucose-coated hemoglobin.

An A1C test can show your average glucose level for the past three months because:

• Glucose sticks to hemoglobin for as long as the red blood cells are alive.

• Red blood cells live about three months.

High A1C levels are a sign of high blood glucose from diabetes. Diabetes can cause serious health problems, including heart disease, kidney disease, and nerve damage. But with treatment and lifestyle changes, you can control your blood glucose levels.

Other names: HbA1C, A1C, glycohemoglobin, glycated hemoglobin, glycosylated hemoglobin

What does the HbA1C test measure?

It measures the percentage of red blood cells with glucose attached to hemoglobin. Since red blood cells live about three months, this percentage reflects longer-term glucose exposure.

Why is the HbA1C Test Performed?

• Diagnosing prediabetes and diabetes

• Monitoring glucose control over time

• Assessing risk for diabetes-related complications

Understanding Your HbA1C Results

• Below 5.7 percent: Normal

• 5.7 to 6.4 percent: Prediabetes

• 6.5 percent or higher: Diabetes

For individuals with diabetes, a typical goal is around 7.0 percent or lower, unless otherwise directed by a physician.

The Testing Procedure

• No fasting is required.

• A small sample of blood is taken from a vein or via a finger prick.

Factors That Can Affect HbA1C Accuracy

• Severe anemia

• Kidney disease

• Liver disease

• Recent blood transfusions

• Certain blood disorders

Why do I need an A1C test?

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends A1C testing for diabetes and prediabetes if:

• You are over age 45.

  • If your results are normal, your provider will tell you how often you should be tested based on your age and risk factors.

  • If your results show you have prediabetes, you will usually need to be tested every 1 to 2 years. Ask your provider how often to get tested and what you can do to reduce your risk of developing diabetes.

  • If your results show you have diabetes, you should get an A1C test at least twice a year to monitor your condition and treatment.
    

• You are under 45 and are more likely to develop diabetes because you:

  • Have prediabetes.

  • Are overweight or have obesity.

  • Have a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes.

  • Have high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels.

  • Have heart disease or have had a stroke.

  • Are physically active less than 3 times a week.

  • Have had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or given birth to a baby weighing over 9 pounds.

  • Have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

You may also need an A1C test if you have symptoms of diabetes, such as:

• Feeling very thirsty

• Urinating (peeing) a lot

• Losing weight without trying

• Feeling very hungry

• Blurred vision

• Numb or tingling hands or feet

• Fatigue

• Dry skin

• Sores that heal slowly

• Having more infections than usual

What happens during an A1C test?

A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes

What do the results mean?

A1C results tell you what percentage of your hemoglobin is coated with glucose. The ranges are just a guide to what is normal. What's normal for you depends on your health, age, and other factors. Ask your provider what A1C percentage is healthy for you.

To diagnose diabetes or prediabetes, the percentages commonly used are:

• Normal: A1C below 5.7%

• Prediabetes: A1C between 5.7% and 6.4%

• Diabetes: A1C of 6.5% or higher

Providers often use more than one test to diagnose diabetes. So, if your test result was higher than normal, you may have another A1C test or a different type of diabetes test, usually either a fasting blood glucose test or an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

If your A1C test was done to monitor your diabetes, talk with your provider about what your test results mean.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How often HbA1c test be performed?

The HbA1c test should be performed at least twice a year for people with stable diabetes. For those not meeting glycemic goals or undergoing therapy changes, the Hemoglobin A1c test should be done every three months. Regular monitoring through the HbA1c test helps prevent complications. You can book an HbA1c test online at Lupin Diagnostics, where the HbA1c price is transparent and affordable.

2. What is the best time for an HbA1c test?

The HbA1c test does not require fasting and can be performed at any time of the day. Unlike fasting glucose tests, the Hemoglobin A1c test provides a long-term measure of blood sugar control, making it more reliable. Patients can easily book a Hemoglobin A1c test online and complete it at their convenience.

3. Can HbA1c increase suddenly?

Yes, sudden increases in HbA1c test results may occur due to stress, infections, or medications such as steroids. If your Hemoglobin A1c test shows unexpected results, your doctor may recommend repeating the test. Regular testing at a reasonable HbA1c price ensures accurate monitoring.

4. What are the complications of high HbA1c?

Persistently high HbA1c test results increase the risk of severe complications, including dementia, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetic foot, nerve damage, and even reduced life expectancy. The Hemoglobin A1c test is critical in detecting risks early. Affordable Hemoglobin A1c test price at Lupin Diagnostics supports routine monitoring.