⁠HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin)

HbA1c, also known as Glycated Hemoglobin, is a blood test that measures the average level of blood glucose (sugar) over the past 2 to 3 months. It reflects how much glucose is attached to the hemoglobin protein in red blood cells.

When blood sugar levels are high, more glucose binds to hemoglobin. Since red blood cells live for about 120 days, the HbA1c test provides a long-term view of blood sugar control, unlike single-time tests like fasting or post-meal blood sugar.

This test is widely used for:

• Diagnosing diabetes and prediabetes

• Monitoring long-term glucose control in diabetic patients

Normal HbA1c values:

• Below 5.7%: Normal

• 5.7% to 6.4%: Prediabetes

• 6.5% or above: Diabetes

For people with diabetes, a target HbA1c is usually below 7%, but this may vary based on age, health conditions, and doctor’s recommendation.

Because it doesn’t require fasting and gives a broader picture of glucose control, HbA1c is considered one of the most reliable and essential tools in diabetes management.