1. What is A1C?

A1C (glycated hemoglobin) is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It's a crucial marker for long-term glucose control in diabetes management.

2. How is A1C Calculated?

The calculator uses the formula to estimate A1C from average glucose:

Where:

• \( A1C \) — Glycated hemoglobin (percentage)
• \( eAG \) — Estimated average glucose (mg/dL)

Explanation: This formula converts average glucose levels over approximately 3 months into an A1C percentage, which represents the percentage of hemoglobin that is glycated.

3. Importance of A1C Measurement

Details: A1C provides a more comprehensive picture of blood sugar control than single glucose measurements and is used to diagnose diabetes and monitor treatment effectiveness.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How often should A1C be tested?
A: Typically every 3 months for diabetes management, or every 6 months if well-controlled and stable.

Q2: What are normal A1C values?
A: Below 5.7% is normal, 5.7%-6.4% indicates prediabetes, and 6.5% or higher suggests diabetes.

Q3: Why is A1C measured over 3 months?
A: Red blood cells live about 3 months, so A1C reflects glucose exposure over that lifespan.

Q4: Are there limitations to A1C?
A: A1C may be less accurate in people with anemia, hemoglobin variants, or conditions affecting red blood cell turnover.

Q5: How does A1C relate to average glucose?
A: An A1C of 6% ≈ 126 mg/dL, 7% ≈ 154 mg/dL, 8% ≈ 183 mg/dL, 9% ≈ 212 mg/dL, 10% ≈ 240 mg/dL.