HbA1c
In one sentence
HbA1c measures the share of haemoglobin with glucose attached — a three-month average of blood sugar.
HbA1c measures the share of haemoglobin with glucose attached — a three-month average of blood sugar.
Why it matters
Because it summarises months rather than a moment, HbA1c both diagnoses diabetes (6.5% and above, confirmed) and steers its treatment. Most people with diabetes have a personal target agreed with their clinician.
What can distort it
Anaemia, recent transfusion and pregnancy change red-cell lifespan and can push the number away from the truth — one reason unexpected results are repeated, not acted on alone.
Patient education
Definitions explain terms; they do not interpret your individual results or replace a consultation.