1. What is the eAG Calculator?

The eAG (Estimated Average Glucose) calculator converts HbA1c percentage values to average glucose levels in mg/dL, providing a more intuitive understanding of blood glucose control over the previous 2-3 months.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the American Diabetes Association formula:

Where:

• \( HbA1c \) — Glycated hemoglobin percentage
• \( eAG \) — Estimated average glucose in mg/dL

Explanation: This linear regression equation was derived from extensive clinical studies correlating HbA1c levels with measured average glucose levels.

3. Importance of eAG Calculation

Details: Converting HbA1c to eAG helps patients better understand their diabetes control by translating the percentage into familiar glucose units that correspond to daily glucose meter readings.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter HbA1c value as a percentage (e.g., 6.5, 7.0, 8.2). The calculator will provide the corresponding estimated average glucose in mg/dL.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the relationship between HbA1c and average glucose?
A: HbA1c represents the average blood glucose level over the past 2-3 months, with each 1% change in HbA1c corresponding to approximately 30 mg/dL change in average glucose.

Q2: What are target eAG levels for diabetes management?
A: For most adults with diabetes, the American Diabetes Association recommends HbA1c <7% (eAG <154 mg/dL), though individual targets may vary.

Q3: How often should HbA1c be tested?
A: Every 3-6 months for patients meeting treatment goals, more frequently (every 3 months) for those with therapy changes or not meeting goals.

Q4: Are there limitations to this conversion?
A: The relationship may vary slightly between individuals, and the formula is most accurate for HbA1c values between 5-12%.

Q5: Can eAG replace self-monitoring of blood glucose?
A: No, eAG provides an average but doesn't show glucose variability or hypoglycemic episodes that are important for diabetes management.