Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with Mass Fraction Measurement

What HbA1c Measures

HbA1c is formed when hemoglobin binds to glucose over time. It’s a stable marker that reflects your blood sugar levels from roughly 2 to 3 months prior, giving a broader picture than a single blood sugar test. This test is particularly useful for people with diabetes or prediabetes to assess how well their treatment is working.

Why It’s Used in Healthcare

Healthcare providers use HbA1c to diagnose diabetes (typically ≥6.5%), monitor treatment plans, and adjust medications if needed. It’s also a key indicator of long-term blood sugar management, helping prevent complications like nerve damage or kidney disease.

How It’s Done

A small blood sample is taken from your arm, usually by a healthcare professional. The sample is processed to measure the percentage of hemoglobin bound to sugar. No special preparation is needed, but fasting isn’t required.

What Values Mean

Results are reported as a percentage (e.g., 5.7%, 6.4%, 7.5%). A result below 5.7% is generally considered normal, while 5.7%–6.4% suggests prediabetes. Results at or above 6.5% are diagnostic for diabetes. Values above 7% may indicate poor control and require further discussion with your doctor.