HbA1c, also known as glycated hemoglobin, is a laboratory test used to measure the average blood sugar level over the previous 2-3 months. HbA1c reflects the amount of glucose that has become attached to hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the body's tissues.
When glucose levels are high, more glucose becomes attached to hemoglobin, and the HbA1c level increases. HbA1c is a useful tool for monitoring blood sugar control over time and for diagnosing diabetes.
For individuals with diabetes, the American Diabetes Association recommends an HbA1c target of less than 7%, which corresponds to an average blood sugar level of around 150 mg/dL. Maintaining an HbA1c level within this target range has been shown to reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and cardiovascular disease.
Regular monitoring of HbA1c levels is an important part of diabetes management, and can help individuals and healthcare providers to identify trends in blood sugar control and make adjustments to treatment plans as needed.
HbA1c, also known as glycated hemoglobin, is a laboratory test used to measure the average blood sugar level over the previous 2-3 months. HbA1c reflects the amount of glucose that has become attached to hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the body's tissues.
Publications where this method have been used:
Linn K. L. Øyri, Martin P. Bogsrud, Anne Lene Kristiansen, Jannicke B. Myhre, Kjetil Retterstøl, Hilde K. Brekke, Thomas E. Gundersen, Lene F. Andersen, Kirsten B. Holven. Infant cholesterol and glycated haemoglobin concentrations vary widely—Associations with breastfeeding, infant diet and maternal biomarkers. 2019. https://doi.org/10.1111/apa.14936