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Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)

Definition: A diagnostic gold-standard blood test that reflects average plasma glucose concentrations over the preceding 8 to 12 weeks (the approximate lifespan of red blood cells).

More details

HbA1c measures the percentage of hemoglobin molecules bound to glucose. It does not require fasting and provides an accurate, long-term picture of glycemic control:

  • Normal (Non-Diabetic): Below 5.7%
  • Prediabetes: 5.7% to 6.4%
  • Diabetes Diagnosis: 6.5% or higher on two separate tests
  • Therapeutic Target for Most Diabetic Adults: Under 7.0% (individualized according to clinical guidelines)

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