What is HbA1c?

By Sophie Mullany, BSc

HbA1c, also known as glycated hemoglobin, is produced when glucose in the blood sticks to hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells necessary for the transport of oxygen. As a rule of thumb, the more glucose there is in the blood, the greater the HbA1c is produced

HbA1c and Diabetes

People with diabetes have a consistently higher sugar (glucose) level than normal in their blood

. Since hyperglycemia over a prolonged period can be very dangerous for one's health, diabetics need to carefully monitor their blood sugar levels to make sure that they are not too high (or too low). This is why measuring HbA1c levels, which is an indicator of average blood glucose, is a useful test for badessing whether diabetes is managed effectively or not. It can also be used as a diagnostic tool for this disease and to highlight people at risk of developing (pre-diabetics).

As red blood cells have a shelf life of about 3 months before being replaced, HbA1c may reflect how high blood sugar levels were, on average, at during the previous 3 months.

HbA1c as an indicator of diabetes control, Image credit: Fouad A. Saad / Shutterstock

How the test works HbA1c?

The HbA1c test is used to measure the amount of glycosylated hemoglobin in the blood.

It is recommended that people diagnosed with diabetes have an HbA1c reading every 3 to 6 months, and more frequently those who are considering starting a family, who have problems controlling their blood sugar or who have recently changed their treatment plan.

The test is performed by a health professional, using a sample of blood taken from the finger or arm

L & # 39; normal HbA1c interval

On average, normal HbA1c for non-diabetics is <36 mmol / mol (5.5%). For people with diabetes, the ideal level of HbA1c should be 48 mmol / mol (6.5%) or less. A measurement of HbA1c between 36 and 48 mmol / mol means that the individual presents a very high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, called "pre-diabetes".

However, it is important to remember that everyone is different, and each patient will discuss with his healthcare team his personal target. This individual target will take into account their current HbA1c level and the expected date of the next test

Benefits of Lowering HbA1c

High and persistent blood glucose levels may be very dangerous for health. This is why it is important to monitor carefully and, if necessary, reduce HbA1c levels.

For example, several large-scale studies have demonstrated that a 1% decrease in HbA1c (11 mmol / mol) may reduce the risk of developing neuropathy (alteration of nerve endings), a retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy (renal failure), heart failure and vascular disease.

Some steps can be taken to lower elevated HbA1c levels and prevent any possible health complications: Review your current treatment plan with your health care team and try a higher dose / alternative medication [19659021] Presenting more physical activity and exercise in your lifestyle

How Does It Work? Does HbA1c differ from blood glucose?

Although HbA1c is a good marker of blood glucose, there are significant differences between HbA1c levels. t and the standard finger prick test (another test commonly used for diabetics to monitor their blood sugar).

First, the level of glucose in the blood is the concentration of glucose in the blood at a specific time – this is measured by the finger prick test and is given in mmol / l. As this test only gives an instant overview of blood glucose levels, it should be performed several times a day, but can be done at home without the help of a health professional.

In contrast, the HbA1c test provides a global marker of blood glucose. a mean individual blood glucose during the last 3 months, and is given in mmol / mol. This helps to better understand how blood sugar levels are controlled over time, and so tell doctors how diabetes is managed and whether lifestyle changes or medication needs to be made.

Since the reliability of the HbA1c test depends on red blood cells, it is important to remember that certain medical conditions, such as anemia, may affect the results.

Assessed by Rebecca Woolley, BSc Hons [19659017] References

Further Reading