HbA1c Test: Key Information

Doctors commonly request the HbA1c test for diabetic patients periodically. But what exactly is this test, and how is it conducted? Follow this article to learn the answers and important details.

What Is the HbA1c Test?

The HbA1c test (Hemoglobin A1c Test or A1C Test) is a blood test that measures the average blood sugar level over the past three months. To explain the concept simply:

• Glucose is the sugar found in the blood, obtained from consumed food and used by cells as energy.
• Insulin is the hormone that helps cells absorb glucose. When the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or the cells resist it, blood sugar levels rise, leading to diabetes.
• Glucose binds with hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. The higher the blood sugar level, the more glucose binds with hemoglobin.
• The HbA1c test measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is bound to glucose.
• Since red blood cells renew every three months, this test gives a clear view of average blood sugar levels over that period. 

Why Is This Test Used?

Doctors often use the HbA1c test for:

• Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels: Doctors may ask type 2 diabetes patients or those with prediabetes to take this test periodically to monitor their condition and check how well they are controlling their blood sugar levels.
• Diagnosing Diabetes: The World Health Organization recommends the HbA1c test for diagnosing type 2 diabetes in some cases. However, it may not be suitable for all patients when diagnosing diabetes. 

When Should You Take This Test?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise taking the HbA1c test if you exhibit diabetes symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, or blurry vision. It is also recommended for people under 45 who are at risk of diabetes due to:

1. Prediabetes.
2. Obesity or overweight and lack of physical activity.
3. A parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes.
4. High blood pressure or high cholesterol.
5. A history of heart disease or stroke.
6. A history of gestational diabetes.

For individuals over 45, testing is recommended:

• Every 3 years if the test results are always normal.
• Every 1 to 2 years if prediabetes is diagnosed.
• Twice a year if the individual has diabetes. 

How Is the Test Performed?

This test is very simple and involves drawing a blood sample from a vein in the arm using a small needle. Once the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood is collected in a test tube for analysis. 

Do You Need Any Preparation?

The A1C test does not require any special preparations. The person does not need to fast before the test. However, the doctor may request additional tests, such as a cholesterol test, which may require fasting. 

How Are the Results Interpreted?

Here are the standard interpretations for HbA1c test results: 

• Normal: Less than 5.7%
• Prediabetes: Between 5.7% and 6.4%
• Diabetes: 6.5% or higher

To confirm a diagnosis, doctors may request more than one test if the HbA1c results are above normal.

What Factors Affect the Results?

Certain conditions and factors may impact HbA1c test accuracy, such as:

• Severe anemia.
• Kidney failure.
• Liver diseases.
• Blood disorders like sickle cell anemia.
• Certain medications.
• Pregnancy.
• Blood loss or recent transfusion.

You can take the Hemoglobin A1C test offered by Blazma, where a specialist will schedule an appropriate time to collect and analyze your blood sample.