HbA1c

Definition	:	Hemoglobin A1c
Category	:	Medical » Tests
Country/Region	:	Worldwide
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What does HbA1c mean?

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), also known as glycosylated hemoglobin or A1c, is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar (glucose) level over the past 2-3 months. The test reflects the cumulative exposure of hemoglobin to glucose during the lifespan of red blood cells, which is approximately 2-3 months. HbA1c is commonly used to monitor and diagnose diabetes, as well as to assess how well diabetes is being managed.

HbA1c test measures the amount of blood sugar (glucose) attached to hemoglobin.
Hemoglobin (Hb) is a protein found in Red Blood Cells (RBC) that carries oxygen throughout your body.
A1c refers to a specific form of hemoglobin that has become attached to glucose (sugar) molecules.

Note:
The process by which glucose binds to hemoglobin is called glycation, and it occurs more frequently when blood glucose levels are elevated. Therefore, higher blood glucose levels lead to an increased formation of Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c).