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What Is the A1C Test for Glucose?

The A1C is a blood test that shows your average blood glucose over the previous two to three months, to help your doctor evaluate how well your blood sugar is being controlled.

  1. The Facts

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, the A1C test can diagnose Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, in addition to tracking a patient's diabetes management. The higher your A1C level, the worse your blood sugar control.

    Frequency

    • If you have Type 2 diabetes and your blood sugar level is usually within your target range, your doctor will probably order this test every six months. The test is usually ordered more frequently for Type 1 diabetics or if you have trouble keeping your blood sugar within your target, reports the Mayo Clinic.

    Diagnosis

    • If your level is between 6 and 6.5 percent, it indicates prediabetes, which means you are at high risk of developing diabetes. An A1C level of at least 6.5 percent on more than one occasion is an indicator of diabetes.

    Monitoring

    • An A1C level of 7 percent or lower is considered a good test result if you are diabetic, according to the Mayo Clinic. If your level is higher than that, your doctor may recommend an alteration in diet or medication.

    Considerations

    • The A1C does not report daily fluctuations in blood sugar. According to LabTestsOnline.org, conditions such as anemia or sickle cell hemoglobin may cause inaccurate test results.

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