How is a1c test done

If the amount of glucose is normal, your A1C will be normal. Someone without diabetes will have about 5 percent of their hemoglobin glycated. A normal A1C level is 5. A level of 5. People with diabetes have an A1C level of 6. The American Diabetes Association provides a calculator that shows how A1C levels correlate to glucose levels. To monitor overall glucose control, people with diabetes should have an A1C test at least twice a year.

The test is effective because of the lifespan of the hemoglobin cells. The glucose that was attached to the hemoglobin during the past 3 months will still be recorded by the test, since the cells live for approximately 3 months.

The A1C test provides an average of your blood sugar readings for the past 3 months. In the past, many different types of A1C tests gave different results depending on the lab that analyzed them. But the National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program has helped improve the accuracy of these tests. Manufacturers of A1C tests now have to prove that their tests are consistent with those used in a major diabetes study.

Accurate home test kits are also now available for purchase. But accuracy is relative when it comes to A1C or even blood glucose tests. The A1C test result can be up to half a percent higher or lower than the actual percentage. That means if your A1C is 6, it might indicate a range from 5.

Some people may have a blood glucose test that indicates diabetes but their A1C is normal, or vice versa. Before confirming a diagnosis of diabetes, your doctor should repeat the test that was abnormal on a different day. Some people may get false results if they have kidney failure , liver disease , or severe anemia.

Talk to your doctor about how often is right for you. However, ask your doctor if other tests will be done at the same time and if you need to prepare for them. A normal A1C level is below 5. Within the 5. Get your A1C tested in addition to—not instead of—regular blood sugar self-testing if you have diabetes. Let your doctor know if any of these factors apply to you, and ask if you need additional tests to find out. However, your personal goal will depend on many things such as your age and any other medical conditions.

Work with your doctor to set your own individual A1C goal. People who are older, have severe lows, or have other serious health problems may have a higher goal. Your health care provider may have other recommendations for you, depending on your overall health, age, weight, and other factors. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results. The HbA1c test is not used for gestational diabetes , a type of diabetes that only affects pregnant women, or for diagnosing diabetes in children.

Also, if you have anemia or another type of blood disorder , an HbA1c test may be less accurate for diagnosing diabetes. If you have one of these disorders and are at risk for diabetes, your health care provider may recommend different tests.

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health. What is a hemoglobin A1c HbA1c test? Other names: HbA1c, A1c, glycohemoglobin, glycated hemoglobin, glycosylated hemoglobin.

What is it used for? If you already have diabetes, an HbA1c test can help monitor your condition and glucose levels. Why do I need an HbA1c test? If you are under 45, you may need this test if you have certain risk factors. These include: Being overweight or obese High blood pressure History of heart disease Physical inactivity Testing should be done every 3 years, and more frequently if your results show you have prediabetes. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products.

Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Sections for A1C test About. Overview The A1C test is a common blood test used to diagnose type 1 and type 2 diabetes. More Information Diabetes Diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome Hyperglycemia in diabetes Prediabetes Type 1 diabetes Type 1 diabetes in children Type 2 diabetes Type 2 diabetes in children Show more related information.

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