The second way of monitoring blood glucose levels is called the Hemoglobin A1C test. This is a simple lab test, often drawn in the doctor’s office that shows the average amount of sugar that has been in the person’s blood over the past three months. This is the best test a health care provider can use to determine if the blood sugar is under good control. (2)
Glucose in the blood stream can become attached to hemoglobin. This is the part of the red blood cell that carries oxygen. The process of sugar becoming attached to hemoglobin is called glycosylation. Once the sugar is attached it stays for the life of the red blood cell, which is approximately 120 days. Researchers have determined the ratio of sugar in the blood to the amount of glycosylated hemoglobin. This means that the higher the level of blood sugar, the more sugar attaches to red blood cells.
Using the hemoglobin A1C test, physicians can determine how stable glucose levels have been in the past 120 days. Results on the blood work are given in percentages. The lower the percentage the better control the individual has maintained.
In a major study of individuals who suffer from Diabetes, the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial, researchers found how important this test really is. This study indicated that by lowering the hemoglobin A1C percentage the individual can delay or completely prevent serious complications of blindness, kidney failure and nerve disease. The study also indicated that lowering the level by any amount would improve a person’s chances of staying healthy longer. (3)
Most endocrinologist or physicians will order this test at least twice a year. If the person has not been in good control, or has a new diagnosis, or has recently undergone surgery the tests may be ordered more often. Any changes to the treatment plan, differences in exercise routines, or changes in diet would also be an indication for a hemoglobin A1C blood test to be ordered more frequently.
An individual with diabetes should have test results that is less than 7%. Those who keep their levels close to 7% have a much better chance of delaying or preventing long-term complications. Studies have shown that people whose levels remained at 8% or higher have an increased chance of long-term complications. Any individual whose test result is greater than 8% should have their treatment protocols changed and diet reevaluated.
References:
(1) The Health Fitness Project: History of Diabetes
http://www.thehealthfitnessproject.com/special-populations/diabetes/
(2) American Diabetes Association: A1C
http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/blood-glucose-control/a1c/
(3) National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: DCCT and EDIC: The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial and Follow up Study
http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/control/
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