The HbA1c ………. Glycosylated Haemoglobin!

Also known as the HbA1c – in the first place, we spell haemoglobin differently to the US. [Hemoglobin!]

And, yes you can do it at home if you really want to! In the States the kits sell for $US 20 for one use.

So, What is a glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) test?

Put simply, an HbA1c is a blood test which measures the average glucose level in your blood over the past 3 months. It gives a much more accurate reading of how your overall lifestyle has affected your diabetic health and is usually a good starting point for figuring out in which direction you need to go next.

So, the HbA1c test shows an average of your blood glucose level [BGL] over the past 10-12 weeks and should be arranged by your doctor every 3-6 months. The measurement is expressed as a percentage (%) not as mmol/L like the tests you do on your blood glucose meter.

Is the HbA1c the same as testing your own BGLs?

No. The HbA1c test doesn’t show the highs and lows that your home testing shows. Therefore it does not replace the tests you do yourself but is used as an added tool in giving the overall picture of your blood glucose management.

What HbA1c do I aim for?

Well, in non-diabetics, a normal HbA1c level is between 3.0% to 7%. But diabetics usually have a more elevated BGL and can go between 7% and 13%+.
For diabetics it is usually aimed for to have your HbA1c levels below 7%.

The goal for most people with diabetes will be in the 6.5% to 7% range however
this may need to be higher for children and the old and frail. Your doctor will
advise.

How does it work?

A glycosylated haemoglobin test is possible because red blood cells (RBC) are
continuously being made by your long bones and released into your circulation.
When these cells are released, they pick up a percentage (%) of the glucose in the
blood stream at that time.

Each RBC lasts about 120 days. Therefore any blood sample will have a range of
cells released over the previous 120 days with different amounts of glucose
attached. The HbA1c test is able to work out the average.

The dangers of high HbA1c levels

HbA1c levels are very important to keep under control. Having levels greater than 9.0% puts you at a great risk for renal failure, cardiovascular disease, retinopathies, and neuropathies. There are many diabetics who still have no clue what their HbA1c levels are. Even in 2005, public health authorities of New York state that only 10% of people with diabetes in the city are said to actually know their HbA1c levels.  No reason that Sydney, Melbourne or Bathurst would be any different!

Studies indicate that for every 1% increase there is 35% risk increase for small blood vessel disease. Overtime this can seriously harm your blood circulation and cause major complications in your limbs, eyes and cardiovascular system. Based on the HbA1c levels over several months or years, you can determine how much tissue damage has been sustained.

How about six tips to improve your HbA1c?

• Take your diet seriously – Meet with a diabetic dietician to create a meal plan specialized for you.

• Start exercising – Focus especially on cardiovascular activity.

• Take more frequent glucose meter readings - In order to keep your sugars balanced in a day-to-day setting, this is important as each day plays its role in the overall picture.

• Implement Limits & Restrictions – If you get a meal plan setup then you’ve got a lot of ground covered. Moderation is key.

• Keep medication on hand, always. – In case you don’t already, get into the habit of keeping around medication wherever you go.

• Start making targets and goals – Part of any plan or project is that of setting targets and goals to meet.

• Bonus tip: If you’re a diabetic smoker, try to stop – When it comes down to it, everything is a conscious choice. Well if you’re a smoker and a diabetic with elevated HbA1c levels then you’re doing a major double whammy to your body.

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