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Glycosylated Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin that has glucose attached non-enzymatically; reflects average blood glucose over the prior 2 to 3 months.

Also: A1C, HbA1c

Used to diagnose diabetes (>=6.5%) and prediabetes (5.7 to 6.4%), and as the primary long-term glycemic control marker. ADA target for most non-pregnant adults with diabetes is <7%. A1C is affected by conditions altering red blood cell turnover (hemoglobinopathies, hemolytic anemia, recent blood loss, pregnancy), and may need to be paired with continuous glucose monitoring data.

How one textbook covers it

  • Krause and Mahan's Food and the Nutrition Care Process, 16th ed. — Chapter 30

    Used to diagnose diabetes (>=6.5%) and prediabetes (5.7 to 6.4%), and as the primary long-term glycemic control marker. ADA target for most non-pregnant adults with diabetes is <7%. A1C is affected by conditions altering red blood cell turnover (hemoglobinopathies, hemolytic anemia, recent blood loss, pregnancy), and may need to be paired with continuous glucose monitoring data.

Related terms

Continuous Glucose Monitoring, Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus