hba1c-test

2024-10-17

Understanding the HbA1c Test Its Importance and How the Procedure Works

High levels of blood sugar, or diabetes, is one of the most common lifestyle diseases that afflict a large portion of the population. Glucose is the simplest form of sugar we consume through our diet, and the cells of our body need glucose to function. Glucose in blood generally attaches to hemoglobin, a protein with iron content that is responsible for transporting oxygen from our lungs to all the tissues in the body. As the amount of sugar in the blood increases, so does the amount of glucose-coated hemoglobin. Insulin is a hormone that regulates the sugar level in the blood; it helps glucose go into cells to get turned into energy.

So far, we have described the regular function of glucose, insulin, and the behaviour of glucose in the blood, but type 2 diabetes occurs when the amount of glucose in the blood becomes too high due to the body failing to make enough insulin or when the cells of our body stop responding to the insulin. The most common type of diabetes, type 2 diabetes, can occur due to poor diet, physical activity, history of diabetes in the family, etc. The HbA1c test, or hemoglobin A1c test, is a test to measure the average blood sugar levels of the past few months.

 

How does the HbA1c test work, and why is it important?

Like we mentioned above, the glucose in the blood tends to stick to the hemoglobin protein in red blood cells, and the HbA1c test measures the percentage of red blood cells with glycated hemoglobin. The red blood cells have a lifespan of about 3 months, which is why the test reveals the blood sugar level over the past 3 months. The HbA1c test is used to diagnose type 2 diabetes and prediabetes symptoms, and if you are at risk of having diabetes, your doctor might suggest you get this test done every 4 or 6 months.

The HbA1c test is comparatively a simple blood test that involves a blood sample collection from the veins in your arms. There are no other special requirements to do these tests, and you don't need to fast as well. This test is generally suggested when you have symptoms of diabetes or prediabetes, as well as certain diseases, obesity, and a family history of diabetes. For physicians, this test is extremely useful in diagnosing and monitoring a patient’s health as well as making useful treatment decisions. For people who have a higher risk of developing diabetes and those who are recovering with diet, exercise, and medicine, the HbA1c test is highly reliable to monitor their condition.

 

What do the results say?

The HbA1c test results show the percentage of red blood cells with hemoglobin coated with glucose, and these results can be used to diagnose if you have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes symptoms. The final diagnosis depends on many things, including age, health, and other conditions or diseases the patient is suffering from, but in general, below 5.7% is considered normal. Results between 5.7% and 6.4% are considered prediabetes and above 6.5 as diabetes. However, these results are generalized, and the diagnosis of the doctor can vary based on many factors regarding the patient. There are also other blood sugar tests that your doctor might suggest to cement the diagnosis as well as to get more perspective on the condition.

 

Things to remember before the HbA1c test

  • No need to fast, so eat normally before the test.
  • Inform your doctor about the medications you regularly take as well as other diseases and routines you have.
  • Don't stress, and stay hydrated.
  • Reschedule the test if you are unwell.
  • Don't engage in any vigorous activities or exercises on the day of the test.

The HbA1c test is an important step towards diagnosing and initiating effective treatment against diabetes, and if you are someone who already suffers from it or has a high risk of developing it, HbA1c is incredibly useful as a monitoring tool.

 

 

Conclusion

The HbA1c test is a simple but empowering diagnostic tool to recognize diabetes threats. The procedure is easy, but the impact of it is immense when it comes to diagnosing diabetes. Aza Diagnostic Centre is a multispeciality diagnostic centre with NABL accreditation. The most advanced lab in Kannur and Calicut, Aza offers affordable premium diagnostic services for everyone. One of the best ultrasound scan centres in KannurAza has an excellent scientific team and the most advanced equipment to ensure accurate and fast results. Connect with us to make an appointment to check your diabetes profile.

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