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This A1c
Hemoglobin test measures a diabetes patient's total glycated hemoglobin (A1c) and
accurately measures the average blood glucose (blood sugar) level over
the previous 60 to 90 days.
Although
a diabetic's daily blood sugar reading is an important real-time
monitor, it is only the first of two very important disease management
numbers. The other is the A1c.
Blood
sugar binds irreversibly to hemoglobin to form what is called a glycated
hemoglobin complex. This complex is very stable and can be analyzed at
predetermined intervals (usually 90 days) to determine the patient's
overall blood sugar control.
The
recommended goal for diabetes patient's should be to keep daily blood
glucose levels near the normal range of 70 mg/dl to 120 mg/dl before
meals and under 140 mg/dl at 2 hours after eating.
An A1c
number above 8.0% is considered poor blood sugar control, while 7.0% or
lower is the ideal and usually considered the goal for most diabetics.
The A1c results should be used by the patient and his or her doctor to
develop or modify treatment strategies.
Diabetes
is an insidious and terribly damaging disease. It usually takes its
toll slowly, gradually attacking the eyes, organs, and
extremities. Continuous control is a must! The Diabetes Control and
Complications Trial (DCCT) has shown that the lower the A1c number, the
better are the patient's chances of slowing or even preventing serious
damage to the eyes, nerves, and kidneys. Any improvement in A1c
levels has the potential to reduce complications.
The
American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends the A1c test as the best
way to determine if a patient's blood sugar is under control over time.
The ADA further recommends that an A1c test be performed every 3 months
for patients on insulin, during treatment changes, or during periods
when blood sugar levels have been recorded as high. Patients taking
oral medications, with stable blood sugar levels, should take the test
every 6 months.
- Convenient - self-collected at home or office
- Accurate - Nationally Certified Laboratory results
This is a self collected, laboratory analysis that measures the amount of hemoglobin A1c in your blood. Your test results will greatly assist your health care professional in determining your best course of diabetes treatment. |
