A1C (Glycated Hemoglobin)

A1C, or glycated hemoglobin, is a blood test that shows your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen, and when blood sugar is high, it binds to hemoglobin, forming glycated hemoglobin. The A1C result reflects the percentage of hemoglobin with sugar attached, helping doctors assess how well your blood sugar has been controlled over time. It’s an important tool for diagnosing and managing diabetes, guiding treatment decisions, and reducing the risk of complications.