A1c (Hemoglobin A1c)

Hemoglobin A1c (A1c) is a blood test that measures the average level of blood sugar over the past two to three months. It assesses how well your body has been managing glucose by looking at the amount of sugar attached to hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells. A higher A1c indicates higher average blood sugar levels, which can increase the risk of diabetes complications. This test helps doctors diagnose and monitor diabetes management, guiding adjustments to diet, medication, or lifestyle to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.