Glucose Monitoring

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Making the right choice in glucose monitoring is what it matter most. The hemoglobin A_1c (HbA_1c) test is currently one of the best ways to check if diabetes is under control. Here are some useful FAQ's to help you gather more facts about this form of testing.

1. What is the test?
   The HbA_1c test is a simple lab test that shows the average amount of sugar that has been in a person's blood over the last three months. The test shows if a person's blood sugar is close to normal or too high. It is the best tool available for a health care provider to tell if a person's blood sugar is under control.

2. What does this test measure?
   Sugar in the bloodstream can become attached to the hemoglobin (the part of the cell that carries oxygen) in the red blood cells. Once the sugar is attached, it stays there for the life of the red blood cell, which is about 120 days. The higher the level of blood sugar, the more sugar attaches to red blood cells. The HbA_1c test measures the amount of sugar sticking to the ehmoglobin in the red blood cells. Results shown in percentages.

3. When should this test be done?
   All people with diabetes should have a HbA_1c test at least twice a year. People with diabetes should get the test more often if their blood sugar stays too high or if their health care provider makes any change in their treatment plan.

4. How is the test done
   This test is usually done in a health care provider's office. To do the test, a small sample of blood is taken. The blood sample is sent to a laboratory for testing and the laboratory sends the results to the patient's health care provider.

5. What does a HbA_1c test result mean?
   The HbA_1c goal for people with diabetes is less than 6.5 percent. The Diabetes Control & Complications Trial (DCCT) findings showed that people with diabetes who keep their HbA_1c levels close to 6.5 percent have a much better chance of delaying or preventing diabetes problems that affect the eyes, kidneys, and nerves. A change in treatment is almost always needed is a person's HbA_1c levels are frequently elevated. However, if people with diabetes can lower their HbA_1c number by any amount,, they will improve their chances of staying healthy.

6. How can people with diabetes use their HbA_1c test results?
   When people with diabetes know the results from their HbA_1c test, they can take an active role in their diabetes management. A high HbA_1c is one that is greater than 8 percent. People with diabetes who have a test result that is greater than 8 percent need to work with their health care provider to change their treatment plan.
   An HbA_1c test result that is close to normal is one that is less than 6.5 percent. When people with diabetes have a test result that is less than 6.5 percent, their treatment plan is probably working and it is likely that their blood sugar is under control.

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