HbA1c
Alternate Names : A1C, Diabetic Control Index, GHb, Glycohemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, Hemoglobin - Glycosylated
DefinitionHbA1c is a test that measures the amount of glycosylated hemoglobin in your blood. The test gives a good estimate of how well diabetes is being managed over time.
Why is the Test Performed?
This test measures blood sugar control over an extended period in people with diabetes. In general, the higher your HbA1c value, the higher the risk that you will develop complications from diabetes (eye disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, heart disease, and stroke). This is especially true if your HbA1c remains elevated on more than one occasion.
The closer your HbA1c value is to normal, the less risk you have for these complications.
Normally, only a small percentage of the hemoglobin (Hb) molecules in red blood cells become glycosylated (that is, chemically linked to glucose). The percent of glycosylation increases over time, and is higher if there is more glucose in your blood. Therefore, older red blood cells will have a greater percent of glycosylated hemoglobin, and diabetics whose blood glucose has been too high will have a greater percent of glycosylated hemoglobin.
Today's Top News Stories | • | Clinical Trials Update: Nov. 20, 2008 - Nov 20, 2008, 13:49
- High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)
- Osteoarthritis
- Urinary Incontinence
| • | U.S. Lags on HIV Testing Goals - Nov 20, 2008, 16:00
Despite call for routine exams, 60,000 Americans were infected last year. | • | Estrogen May Explain Why Women With Cystic Fibrosis Suffer More - Nov 20, 2008, 19:00
Study found high levels of hormone worsened respiratory disease. | • | CDC Monitors Shortage of Hib Vaccine - Nov 20, 2008, 16:00
The shot protects against infection that can cause meningitis, pneumonia in young children. | • | Colorectal Cancer Screens Detect Unrecognized Disease - Nov 20, 2008, 19:00
Finnish study says about 40% returned positive results in review of national program. |
|
