1. What is HbA1c?

HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c) is a form of hemoglobin that is chemically linked to sugar. It provides a three-month average of blood glucose levels and is a crucial marker for diabetes management and diagnosis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the conversion formula:

Where:

• \( eAG \) — Estimated Average Glucose (mg/dL)
• 46.7 and 28.7 — Conversion constants derived from regression analysis

Explanation: This formula converts average blood glucose levels to the corresponding HbA1c percentage, providing a standardized way to interpret glucose control.

3. Importance of HbA1c Measurement

Details: HbA1c is a critical marker for diabetes diagnosis and monitoring. It reflects long-term glucose control and helps predict the risk of diabetes complications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your average blood glucose level in mg/dL. The value must be a positive number representing your typical blood glucose level over the past 2-3 months.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal HbA1c level?
A: Normal HbA1c is below 5.7%. Levels between 5.7%-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 stability.

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 eAG and regular blood glucose readings?
A: eAG represents an average of glucose levels over time, while regular readings show glucose at specific moments.

Q5: Is this conversion formula applicable to all populations?
A: While generally accurate, individual variations may exist. The formula is based on large population studies but may not be perfect for every individual.