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Diabetes management goes far beyond daily blood sugar checks. For long-term control, healthcare professionals rely on a more stable, data-rich indicator: Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). But what exactly does it measure? And why is it so important?
In this article, we break down the HbA1c science, explain its role as a long-term glucose marker, and explore what makes it such a critical part of diabetes diagnostics and monitoring in clinical labs.
To understand HbA1c science, start with the basics. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells (RBCs) that carries oxygen. When glucose circulates in the bloodstream, some of it attaches to hemoglobin, a process known as glycation.
HbA1c is the form of hemoglobin that has glucose bound to it. Since red blood cells live for about 120 days, measuring HbA1c provides an average of a person’s blood glucose levels over the past 2 to 3 months.
In short, Hemoglobin A1c is a long-term glucose marker, offering a broader view of blood sugar control than a single-point glucose reading.
| HbA1c (%) | Estimated Average Glucose (mg/dL) | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| < 5.7 | < 117 | Normal |
| 5.7–6.4 | 117–137 | Prediabetes |
| ≥ 6.5 | ≥ 137 | Diabetes diagnosis or poor control |
Source: American Diabetes Association
Unlike daily glucose checks, which can be influenced by meals, exercise, or stress, HbA1c remains stable and unaffected by short-term fluctuations.
Why It Matters:
In the Philippines, diabetes is the 4th leading cause of death and affects approximately 1 in 14 Filipino adults—a number expected to rise, especially in urban and aging populations.
Source: International Diabetes Federation – Philippines
HbA1c testing supports:
Especially in resource-limited or community settings, portable HbA1c analyzers allow immediate decision-making without centralized lab delays.
There are several lab methods for testing HbA1c, each designed to ensure accuracy and reproducibility:
Key Requirements for Reliable Testing:
Even though HbA1c is a reliable long-term glucose marker, some conditions can affect its accuracy:
In such cases, additional glucose monitoring (like fructosamine testing) may be needed.
To ensure consistently accurate results:
Looking to enhance your lab’s diabetes testing capabilities? Explore our solutions for HbA1c analyzers and quality reagents.
What is the ideal frequency for HbA1c testing?
For people with stable glucose control, testing every 6 months is standard. For patients with therapy changes or poor control, every 3 months is recommended.
Can HbA1c be used for diabetes diagnosis?
Yes. An HbA1c level ≥ 6.5% on two separate occasions can confirm a diagnosis of diabetes.
Does HbA1c replace daily glucose testing?
No. Daily tests are still useful for short-term management. HbA1c provides the “big picture” over time.
What’s the difference between NGSP and IFCC units?
Both are standards for reporting HbA1c. NGSP reports in %, while IFCC uses mmol/mol. Labs must clearly indicate the unit used.
Are POCT HbA1c analyzers reliable?
Yes, as long as they are properly validated, regularly calibrated, and used according to standard procedures.
The science behind HbA1c reveals more than just numbers—it reflects a patient’s journey in managing diabetes over time. As a long-term glucose marker, HbA1c helps clinicians assess risk, adjust treatments, and prevent complications.
For labs across the Philippines, integrating HbA1c testing isn’t just a diagnostic upgrade. It’s a step toward better chronic disease care.
Want to upgrade your laboratory with HbA1c testing?
