what is ac1

The A1C test, also known as the hemoglobin A1C or HbA1c test, is a blood test that measures the average levels of blood glucose, or blood sugar, over the past 2 to 3 months. It is a commonly used test to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes, as well as to monitor how well individuals are managing their blood sugar levels. A normal A1C level is below 5.7%, a level of 5.7% to 6.4% indicates prediabetes, and a level of 6.5% or more indicates diabetes. The A1C test is particularly important for individuals with diabetes, as higher A1C levels are linked to diabetes complications, making it crucial to reach and maintain an individual A1C goal. It should be noted that the A1C test should not be used to diagnose type 1 diabetes, gestational diabetes, or cystic fibrosis-related diabetes, and may give false results in people with certain conditions.