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, making it a crucial marker for diabetes management and diagnosis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the conversion formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: This formula provides a mathematical relationship between average glucose levels and the corresponding HbA1c percentage, allowing for easy conversion between these two important diabetes metrics.

3. Importance of HbA1c Measurement

Details: HbA1c testing is essential for diabetes diagnosis, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and assessing long-term glycemic control. It helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about medication adjustments and lifestyle recommendations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your average glucose level in mg/dL. The value must be a positive number. The calculator will provide the corresponding HbA1c percentage result.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the normal range for HbA1c?
A: For non-diabetic individuals, normal HbA1c is below 5.7%. Prediabetes ranges from 5.7% to 6.4%, and diabetes is diagnosed at 6.5% or higher.

Q2: How often should HbA1c be tested?
A: For people with diabetes, HbA1c should typically be tested every 3-6 months. For those with well-controlled diabetes, testing every 6 months may be sufficient.

Q3: Can HbA1c results be affected by other factors?
A: Yes, conditions that affect red blood cell turnover (such as anemia, recent blood loss, or hemoglobin variants) can affect HbA1c accuracy.

Q4: What's the difference between eAG and regular glucose readings?
A: eAG represents an average of glucose levels over time, while regular glucose readings show your blood sugar at a specific moment.

Q5: Why is HbA1c expressed as a percentage?
A: HbA1c is expressed as the percentage of hemoglobin that is glycated (has glucose attached to it), providing a proportional measure of long-term glucose exposure.