1. What is HbA1c?

HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c) is a form of hemoglobin that is chemically linked to glucose. It provides a reliable measure of average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months and is a key indicator for diabetes management and diagnosis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• \( \text{eAG} \) — Estimated Average Glucose (mg/dL)
• 46.7 and 28.7 — Conversion constants

Explanation: This formula converts average glucose readings into the corresponding HbA1c percentage, providing a standardized measure of long-term glucose control.

3. Importance of HbA1c Measurement

Details: HbA1c testing is crucial for diabetes diagnosis, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and assessing long-term glycemic control. It helps reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your average glucose level in mg/dL. The value must be greater than 0. The calculator will provide the corresponding HbA1c percentage.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal HbA1c level?
A: Normal HbA1c is below 5.7%. Levels between 5.7% and 6.4% indicate prediabetes, and 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.

Q2: How often should HbA1c be tested?
A: People with diabetes should typically have HbA1c tested every 3-6 months, depending on their treatment plan and glucose control.

Q3: Can HbA1c be inaccurate in certain conditions?
A: Yes, conditions like anemia, hemoglobin variants, kidney disease, or recent blood loss can affect HbA1c accuracy.

Q4: What's the difference between HbA1c and daily glucose readings?
A: Daily glucose readings show momentary levels, while HbA1c provides a 2-3 month average, giving a broader picture of glucose control.

Q5: How does HbA1c correlate with average glucose?
A: An HbA1c of 6% corresponds to an average glucose of about 126 mg/dL, with each 1% change representing approximately 29 mg/dL change in average glucose.