HgB A1C utilization
monitor glucose levels over a a 4-8 week period; useful for assessing diet and medication compliance
HbA1C is a laboratory test that is used to measure the average blood glucose level over the past 2-3 months. It is primarily used to diagnose and monitor diabetes, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of diabetes treatment plans.
The HbA1C test measures the percentage of hemoglobin that has glucose attached to it. Hemoglobin is the protein molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues. When glucose attaches to hemoglobin, it forms HbA1C.
The level of HbA1C present in the blood is an important indicator of blood glucose control. Individuals with diabetes tend to have higher levels of HbA1C, indicating poorer blood glucose control. The American Diabetes Association recommends a target HbA1C level of less than 7% for most people with diabetes.
In addition to monitoring diabetes, the HbA1C test can also be used to identify individuals with an increased risk of developing diabetes. It has been found that people with higher HbA1C levels, even if they do not have diabetes, are at increased risk of developing the disease in the future.
Overall, the HbA1C test is an important tool for the diagnosis and management of diabetes. Understanding the role and utilization of this test is essential for healthcare professionals to appropriately treat patients with diabetes and prevent complications associated with poorly controlled blood glucose levels.
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