HbA1c Test: Purpose, Procedure, and Why Do you Need It?
Diabetes is a growing and serious health concern around the world, impacting individuals of all age groups. Even when it comes to managing this chronic condition, it doesn't just require frequent check-ups; you may also need a complete understanding of long-term glucose levels in your blood, and that is when your doctor may suggest an HbA1c test . What is an HbA1c, or haemoglobin A1C test? It is a blood test that examines the average blood glucose levels (blood sugar) of over the past 90 days. It also gives a bigger picture of how well increased glucose levels can be managed, focusing on long-term management. Basically, glucose is a type of sugar that is obtained from the food you eat. Your cells use this glucose for energy, and a hormone called insulin helps the glucose to easily get inside of your cells. If your blood sugar level is high, or diabetes has been detected, your body fails to produce enough insulin, or your cells do not use it appropriately. As a result, glucose fail...