Other Factors Affecting HbA1c Levels
- Conditions that affect red blood cell production (erythropoiesis), such as iron and B12 deficiencies and chronic liver disease
- Conditions that can affect glycation (bonding of glucose molecule to fats or protein), such as chronic renal failure
- Alcohol consumption
- Certain medicines or supplements
How Often Should I Get an HbA1c Test?
How often you should do HbA1c testing depends on your condition, meaning your doctor will provide you with further instructions. If you already have diabetes, then the doctor may recommend having it every 3 to 6 months. But, of course, that depends on how controlled your glucose levels are.
For patients with well-controlled diabetes, HbA1c is usually done twice a year (every 6 months). For patients with poorly controlled diabetes, HbA1c is usually done 4 times a year (every 3 months).
Glycosylated Hemoglobin Test in the Philippines
Glycosylated hemoglobin or HbA1c testing is not widely available in the Philippines although some clinics, laboratories, and hospitals offer it to patients. The most common way to diagnose diabetes is through FBS or fasting blood sugar.
In FBS, the patient needs to fast for about 8 hours overnight, go to the laboratory to have their blood sample taken, and wait for the results. A blood sugar level of less than 100mg/dl is normal. 100 to 125 mg/dl may be indicative of prediabetes, and a measurement of 126 mg/dl or higher on 2 separate tests can point to diabetes.
Key Takeaways
Have you recently searched for the phrase “HbA1c meaning?” HbA1c testing measures the amount of glucose attached to your red blood cells with a lifespan of about 2 to 3 months. It can diagnose diabetes and is currently the gold standard in determining the patient’s glycemic control. If you are diagnosed with diabetes, it is important to have regular check-ups with your doctor. They will decide the frequency of the diabetes tests based on your individual needs and circumstances.
Learn more about Diabetes here.
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