Relatively new to this in that I have only had 2 appointments with the diabetic nurse since being diagnose last September although I have learnt SO much from this site. One thing I have to ask, what is the HbA1c test? The blood test I had done after fasting for 12 or so hours when I was diagnosed as diabetic was that an HbA1c test. I see that it has to be done every so often, is this just a normal fasting test or is it something different? Sorry if I appear thick or am missing the point.
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HbA1c
- Thread starter broads
- Start Date
jeenie1940
Well-Known Member
Hi Broads, hope this helps
The HbA1c test (hemoglobin A1c test, glycosylated hemoglobin A1c test, glycohemoglobin A1c test, or A1c test) is a lab test which reveals average blood glucose over a period of two to three months. Specifically, it measures the number of glucose molecules attached to hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells.
The test takes advantage of the lifecycle of red blood cells. Although constantly replaced, individual cells live for about four months. So by measuring attached glucose in a current blood sample, average blood sugar levels over the previous two to three months can be determined.
HbA1c test results are expressed as a percentage,
The HbA1c test (hemoglobin A1c test, glycosylated hemoglobin A1c test, glycohemoglobin A1c test, or A1c test) is a lab test which reveals average blood glucose over a period of two to three months. Specifically, it measures the number of glucose molecules attached to hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells.
The test takes advantage of the lifecycle of red blood cells. Although constantly replaced, individual cells live for about four months. So by measuring attached glucose in a current blood sample, average blood sugar levels over the previous two to three months can be determined.
HbA1c test results are expressed as a percentage,
Hi Brian
This diabetes thing is confusing huh? And so much to learn, but you are doing really well
Ok here is your answer
The HB1ac test is used to estimate the average glucose levels in the blood stream over the last 60 to 90 days.
It is actually a measurement of the amount of glycation that is present in hemoglobin.
Results between 4% and 6% is the goal, 6.5% to7% is borderline, while levels above 7% are undesirable.
The chance for heart disease goes up 15-30% for every 1% higher level over 6.
It is not necessary to fast before the HB1ac test, but often the blood is used to carry out other tests too like cholesterol, liver function, and all that so that is why you may be asked to fast before the test.
All the best
Karen
This diabetes thing is confusing huh? And so much to learn, but you are doing really well
Ok here is your answer
The HB1ac test is used to estimate the average glucose levels in the blood stream over the last 60 to 90 days.
It is actually a measurement of the amount of glycation that is present in hemoglobin.
Results between 4% and 6% is the goal, 6.5% to7% is borderline, while levels above 7% are undesirable.
The chance for heart disease goes up 15-30% for every 1% higher level over 6.
It is not necessary to fast before the HB1ac test, but often the blood is used to carry out other tests too like cholesterol, liver function, and all that so that is why you may be asked to fast before the test.
All the best
Karen
