Diabetes screening aided by haemoglobin levels

Taking an accurate measurement of patients’ haemoglobin levels could be used as an accurate method of screening for diabetes, according to a research team based in California .
The A1C test is a method of measuring what percentage of blood glucose is attached to haemoglobi, which is a molecule in red blood cells. Diabetics that are not controlling their disease usually have A1C levels of 7.0 per cent or higher. The American study indicates that A1c levels are not being successfully utilised.
The senior investigator, Dr. Davidso, reportedly commented to Reuters Health : “Currently, fasting plasma glucoses are recommended to screen for – and possibly diagnose – diabetes. Few physicians are doing this, because most patients are seen during the day, after they have eaten. A1C measurements do not require fasting and can be measured at a routine office visit.”
Using this system, according to the researchers, was accurate. Davidson reportedly concluded: “This should increase the early diagnosis of diabetes so that appropriate treatment can be instituted to prevent the complications of the disease.”