HBA1c Blood Test Means and Normal Range By Age

Here you will find all the essential information about the HbA1c blood test, its meaning, and the normal HbA1c by age. Understanding the significance of this test and the age-specific ranges can play a crucial role in managing diabetes and maintaining overall health. Let's dive in and explore everything you need to know about the HbA1c blood test!

What is HbA1c Blood Test?

The HbA1c blood test is also known as the glycated or glycosylated hemoglobin test. Alone or along with the Fasting Blood Sugar Test and Glucose tolerance test, it is an essential diagnostic tool for diabetes. 

The HbA1c Blood test is used to measure the average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. It helps a patient and the healthcare provider in diagnosing and monitoring diabetes. 

Diabetes is a chronic condition affecting millions worldwide, which can cause many complications when uncontrolled and puts a serious healthcare burden. Maintaining a healthy HbA1c level is important for effective management of diabetes. 

Normal HbA1c By Age 

Mostly, the same chart and percentages are used for all age groups for HbA1c levels. The normal range is between 4%-5.6%

But HbA1c can increase with age even without diabetes as may be sometimes seen in people above 70 years. 

Some conditions like pregnancy, kidney disease, anemia, iron deficiency, etc. can also impact HbA1c levels. This is why you should let your doctor interpret the results. 

HbA1c Blood Test Means

It is important to understand how this test works and what it reveals. 

Your blood sample is tested to measure the percentage of Haemoglobin which has sugar molecules attached to it.

Haemoglobin is the protein in your red blood cells that carries and transports oxygen throughout the body. Sugar molecules can bind with hemoglobin. When your blood sugar levels are high, more sugar molecules can bind to hemoglobin. This resultant molecule is called glycated hemoglobin. 

Also, Read - Top 5 Rich and Dry Fruits to Increase Hemoglobin 

Red blood cells have a lifespan of around 120 days, which is why this test gives us average blood sugar levels over a period of 2-3 months. Poor blood sugar control will result in a higher reading. Unlike fasting or a random test, this test reflects your blood sugar control over a longer period. 

Your healthcare provider is able to see how good or how poor your blood sugar control has been over a long-term period. This test carries a high value and provides an average of blood sugar levels over several weeks. If the values are within the normal range, your treatment and lifestyle changes have been effective. 

For a higher than-normal range, you will need adjustment to medication and changes in your diet as well as other lifestyle factors. Optimal glucose control is essential to avoiding complications from diabetes. 

The results can also be used to see if you are pre-diabetic. 

Interpreting results

The results of the HbA1C test are reported in the form of percentages. 

• If the range is between 4% to 5.6 %, then it is normal
• A result between 5.7% to 6.4% is diagnosed as prediabetes
• If the result is 6.5% or higher, the person has diabetes

The target range for a diabetic person or someone with special conditions may vary. Adults with diabetes are generally advised to keep the percentage below 7% but this can vary as well. 

Elderly people with diabetes may be advised to maintain a higher range if there is a risk of hypoglycemia. This is why it is important to consult a healthcare provider or your doctor for correct diagnosis and management. 

Diabetes can cause long-term complications and poor quality of life if the sugar levels are not kept within the target range. Fasting and random blood sugar tests give us blood sugar values for that specific time based on your previous meal, activity, and other factors, rather than for a prolonged period. 

Although those tests are very important, this test is also a must for all diabetic patients. For diabetics and pre-diabetics, it is recommended to get this test every 3-6 months. 

For those with risk factors, the test is recommended every 6 months. Getting this test helps you take control to make the necessary changes so that you can manage your condition. This can help you avoid complications related to kidney, heart, circulatory system, nervous system, and vision. 

Conclusion

It is quite clear that the HbA1c blood test is a powerful tool in your fight against Diabetes. It is an important marker for prediabetic and diabetic patients. There are many advantages of monitoring this marker. It can help you make better decisions about your health and lifestyle. It allows your healthcare provider to adjust your treatment plan. 

Monitoring HbA1c levels can help you reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications by taking the right measures on time. Empowering yourself with knowledge regarding your health and disease markers enables you to take charge of your well-being and build a healthier future. 

O-Lab can be your trusted partner in your quest for good health with reliable testing and accurate reporting. Our skilled staff and timely reporting make it a hassle-free and comfortable experience. We also have comprehensive packages for diabetes and other diseases.