Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) NGSP/DCCT %

Overview

Think of HbA1c as your blood sugar’s diary, recording the highs and lows of glucose levels. It measures the percentage of glucose that has stuck to your hemoglobin - the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. This “sugar coating” gives a snapshot of how well you’ve managed your blood sugar over the past two to three months. Unlike a daily glucose test, HbA1c doesn’t fluctuate with what you ate that day or how active you’ve been just before the test. It’s a crucial indicator for managing diabetes, showing whether your overall sugar levels have been in the target zone.

Testing Levels:

• High (5.9 %) - An HbA1c above the normal range suggests that your blood sugar has been consistently higher than ideal for a sustained period. This can increase your risk of diabetes-related complications, such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and cardiovascular problems.
  
  
• Mid - If your HbA1c is within the normal range, it means your blood sugar levels have generally been well-controlled over the past few months. This is great news for your long-term health, reducing your risk of diabetes and its complications.
  
  HbA1c levels that are nearing the high end of normal might indicate that you’re at risk of developing diabetes or that your diabetes may be starting to become harder to control. It’s a prompt to review and possibly adjust your diet, exercise, and medication regimen.
  
  HbA1c levels at the lower end of the normal range are generally a good sign, indicating stable and controlled blood glucose levels. However, if you have diabetes and are on certain medications, it’s important to ensure that your levels aren’t dropping too low, which could risk hypoglycemia.
  
  
• Low (4 %) - Lower than normal HbA1c levels are rare but could occur if you are experiencing frequent low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), especially if you are diabetic and using insulin or other glucose-lowering medications. It’s essential to balance treatment to avoid low blood sugar episodes.

Why We Test Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) NGSP/DCCT %

Testing HbA1c is essential for anyone managing diabetes, whether it’s Type 1, Type 2, or gestational. It helps you and your healthcare provider understand if your treatment plan is working or if adjustments are needed. For those not diagnosed with diabetes, it can serve as an early warning system, indicating prediabetes or the risk of developing diabetes.

What Affects It

Several factors can influence HbA1c levels, including diet, physical activity, medication compliance, illness, stress, and other endocrine disorders. Consistency in lifestyle choices and treatment adherence play critical roles in managing this biomarker effectively.

How to Improve

Managing HbA1c involves maintaining stable blood sugar levels through a balanced diet rich in fiber and low in processed sugars, regular physical activity, and consistent medication use if prescribed. Regular monitoring and consultations with a healthcare provider are vital for adjustments and to prevent complications.

Common Name: HbA1c (NGSP/DCCT)