• Guest - w'd love to know what you think about the forum! Take the 2025 Survey »

Daily finger prick readings vs Hbac

N

nsh2111

Well-Known Member
Messages
321
Type of diabetes
Type 2
Treatment type
Diet only
Hello,

I have recently started testing myself multiple times a day with BG meter.

Question I have is that how much these readings relate to lab based HBac test? my average off around 100+ readings in last two weeks is around 7. Assuming I keep them at 7, would I see similar results in HBaC test in 3 months time?

Thanks
 
No, all you are seeing with your meter readings is what they are at that given moment. HBA1C is somewhat of a controversial topic in regards accuracy. Personally, I think it's roughly a 75% accurate average, but that's another topic.

If you can maintain good levels, pre and post meals and not be spiking over night then you are certainly getting it right. That's what I aim for. I don't place much focus on HBA1C, but I do on how my levels are traveling during the day.
 
A cheap meter with a cheap test strip is no way accurate, so cannot possibly match the accuracy of a proper lab test.

Now whether or not you consider the HbA1c to be relevant or not is a totally separate matter.
 
britishpub said:
A cheap meter with a cheap test strip is no way accurate, so cannot possibly match the accuracy of a proper lab test.
Click to expand...
My understanding is that most home testing BG meters have approximately the same accuracy (+/- 15%). This is a standard to which they must all comply.
Given the same meters are used in hospitals for spot checks, this accuracy is not a problem.
The equipment required for more accurate readings is huge and definitely not portable ... even around a hospital ward.

As others have mentioned, the issue with hB1AC is that it is an average of BG at all times, not just when you are pricking your finger. So this includes when you are asleep or whilst you are running or ...

My readings do not represent a good average because I am likely to take extra readings when I am feeling "off" which will give them a tendency towards low.
 
I test between 4 and 7 times a day and enter my results into the MySugr app. Once it has enough information it’ll estimate an HbA1c result. With my readings I’ve found it to be pretty accurate:
Sept ‘17 Lab result 36 MySugr 34.4
Dec. ‘17 Lab result 33 MySugr 33.9
Feb. ‘18 Lab result 35 MySugr 34.0
It does depend on if you are missing lows or spikes on your finger pricking, but as with all finger pricking you’re looking for trends.
 
Back
Top