1. What is A1C?

A1C (glycated hemoglobin) reflects average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. It's a crucial marker for diabetes diagnosis and management.

2. How is A1C Calculated from Glucose?

The calculator uses the ADAG formula:

Where:

• Average glucose — Mean blood glucose level in mg/dL
• 46.7 and 28.7 — Constants derived from regression analysis

Explanation: This formula correlates average glucose levels with the percentage of hemoglobin that is glycated.

3. Importance of A1C Measurement

Details: A1C provides a more comprehensive picture of glucose control than single glucose measurements and is used for diabetes diagnosis (A1C ≥6.5%) and monitoring treatment effectiveness.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your average blood glucose level in mg/dL. The value should be based on multiple measurements over time for accurate A1C estimation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The formula provides a good estimate but may vary slightly from lab-measured A1C due to individual variations in hemoglobin glycation.

Q2: What's the difference between A1C and eAG?
A: A1C is a percentage, while eAG (estimated Average Glucose) is in mg/dL. Both represent the same concept of long-term glucose control.

Q3: Why use average glucose instead of single measurements?
A: A1C reflects long-term control, so using an average of multiple glucose measurements provides a more accurate correlation.

Q4: Are there conditions where A1C may be inaccurate?
A: Yes, in anemia, hemoglobin variants, kidney disease, or recent blood loss, A1C may not accurately reflect glucose levels.

Q5: How often should A1C be checked?
A: Typically every 3-6 months for diabetes management, or as recommended by your healthcare provider.