A1C test: average blood sugar and diabetes risk

The A1C test measures the percentage of hemoglobin in your red blood cells that has sugar attached. Because red blood cells live about three months, A1C reflects your average blood sugar over roughly the past two to three months. It is used to screen for and diagnose prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, and to monitor diabetes.

How results are grouped

Clinicians commonly group A1C results as normal, prediabetes or diabetes ranges, as set out by the CDC. A diagnosis is usually confirmed with repeat testing, and some conditions — such as anemia or certain hemoglobin variants — can make A1C less reliable.

Why it matters at midlife

Risk of type 2 diabetes rises with age, and body composition often changes around menopause. Prediabetes can often be improved through physical activity, nutrition and weight changes, so finding it early gives you options.

Before the test

• No fasting is needed for A1C.
• Your clinician may also order a fasting glucose test.

When to talk with a healthcare professional

• You want to know whether a test is right for you, and when.
• You have a result and want to understand what it means for your health — your clinician interprets results in the context of your history.

How Dot can help

Dot can help you keep track of symptoms and questions to bring to your appointment. Dot does not order or interpret lab tests; for clinical care, Kindr Care connects you with licensed clinicians.

How Dot works · Kindr Care clinical care

Related topics

• Metabolic health
• Lipid panel (cholesterol)
• Weight & body changes
• Heart health

Sources

1. MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine. Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) Test.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A1C Test for Diabetes and Prediabetes.
3. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIH). Insulin Resistance & Prediabetes.

This page is educational and not medical advice. Dot does not diagnose or prescribe. See our editorial policy.