Question: What is (are) Prevent diabetes problems: Keep your diabetes under control ?
Answer: The A1C test, also called the hemoglobin A1C test, HbA1C, or glycohemoglobin test, is a blood test that reflects the average level of glucose in your blood during the past 3 months. Your A1C test result is given in percents. Your doctor might use the A1C test to help diagnose your diabetes. Your doctor will draw a sample of your blood in the office or send you to a lab to have a sample of your blood drawn for the test. After being diagnosed with diabetes, you should have the A1C test at least twice a year. Your A1C result plus your record of blood glucose numbers show whether your blood glucose is under control. - If your A1C result is too high, you may need to change your diabetes care plan. Your health care team can help you decide what part of your plan to change. For instance, you might need to change your meal plan, your diabetes medicines, or your physical activity plan. - If your A1C result is on target, then your diabetes treatment plan is working. The lower your A1C is, the lower your chance of having diabetes problems. This chart shows the A1C goals for different types of people with diabetes. Types of People A1C Goals Most people with diabetes below 7% Women with diabetes who want to get pregnant or who are pregnant below 6% A1C goals can also depend on - how long you have had diabetes - whether or not you have other health problems Ask your doctor what goal is right for you. This chart shows how your A1C result may match up to your average blood glucose number. What Your A1C Result Means My A1C Result My Average Blood Glucose Number 6% 135 7% 170 8% 205 9% 240 10% 275 11% 310 12% 345
Source: NIDDK