HbA1c or glycated hemoglobin is a blood test that reflects blood glucose levels in the last three months. It is useful for the diagnosis and management of diabetes and prediabetes. This test does not require fasting and is not affected by meals consumed immediately before the test (less prone to variation). In diabetic patients, high HbA1c levels mean the need for a change in treatment/ diet plan

The higher the glucose levels, the more the glucose is attached to hemoglobin, and the higher the HbA1C results. A higher HbA1C result indicates that the glucose levels have been higher than normal for the past 2 to 3 months.

What is Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1C)?

The component of red blood cells called hemoglobin transports oxygen to the cells of the body. Haemoglobin is glycosylated when glucose, a form of sugar, in the blood naturally binds to hemoglobin molecules (also referred to as hemoglobin A1c or HbA1c).

A person’s hemoglobin becomes more glycosylated as their blood sugar level rises. For the duration of the red blood cell or roughly two to three months, the glucose is bound to the hemoglobin.

The amount of glycosylated hemoglobin in the blood can be determined using an HbA1C- Glycated Haemoglobin test.

Who should do the HbA1C- Glycated Haemoglobin test?

The following individuals should take an HbA1C- Glycated Haemoglobin test:

• People with Type 1 diabetes: People with type 1 should get tested for HbA1c test at least three or four times a year or as per the doctor’s recommendation.
• People with Type 2 diabetes: People with type 2 diabetes should have an HbA1c test at least twice a year or as per the doctor’s recommendation.
• People at risk for diabetes: People with prediabetes or who are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes should take an HbA1c test. This can help in assessing the risk and making lifestyle changes to prevent diabetes if necessary.
• People with unexplained symptoms: People with the following symptoms of diabetes should be tested for the HbA1c test:
• Excessive thirst or hunger.
• Frequent urination (pee) at night.
• Weight loss without trying.
• Blurry vision.
• Tingling or numb hands or feet.
• Extreme fatigue and dry skin.
• Slow healing sores.
• Sickness more frequently than normal.