1. What is HbA1c?

HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c) is a form of hemoglobin that is chemically linked to glucose. 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 in mg/dL
• 46.7 and 28.7 — Conversion constants derived from clinical studies

Explanation: This formula converts average blood glucose levels (eAG) to the corresponding HbA1c percentage, providing a standardized way to relate daily glucose measurements to long-term glycemic control.

3. Importance of HbA1c Measurement

Details: HbA1c testing is essential for diabetes diagnosis, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and assessing long-term glycemic control. It helps predict the risk of diabetes complications and guides treatment adjustments.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your average blood glucose level in mg/dL. The value should be based on multiple glucose readings over time for accurate conversion to HbA1c percentage.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the normal range for HbA1c?
A: Normal HbA1c is below 5.7%. 5.7%-6.4% indicates prediabetes, and 6.5% or higher suggests 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 of glucose levels.

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

Q5: How can I improve my HbA1c levels?
A: Consistent medication adherence, healthy eating, regular physical activity, and frequent glucose monitoring can help improve HbA1c levels over time.