The A1c Test

The A1C test is the best test to know how well your treatment plan is working over time.
The test shows if your blood glucose levels have been close to normal or too high. The
higher the amount of glucose in your blood, the higher your A1c result will be. A high A1c
result will increase your chances for serious health problems.

If I test my own blood glucose, do I still need the A1c test?

Yes. The results of both SMBG and A1C tests help you and your health care team to
manage your diabetes and get a complete picture of your diabetes control.

What is a good A1c goal?

You and your health care team should discuss the A1c goal that is right for you. For most
people with diabetes, the A1c goal is less than 7. An A1c higher than 7 means that you
have a greater chance of eye disease, kidney disease, or nerve damage. Lowering your
A1c — by any amount — can improve your chances of staying healthy. If your number is
7 or more, or above your goal, ask your health care team about changing your treatment
plan to bring your A1C number down.

How often do I need an A1c test?

Ask for an A1c test at least twice a year. Get the test more often if your blood glucose
stays too high or if your treatment plan changes.

What about home testing for A1c?

You and your health care team should decide if home testing is a good idea for you. If so,
be sure to do the test the correct way and discuss the results with your doctor.

How do blood glucose self-testing results compare with
A1c test results?

Here is a chart from the American Diabetes Association to show you how your blood
glucose testing results are likely to match up with your A1c results. As the chart shows,
the higher your self-testing numbers are over a 3-month period, the higher your A1c result
is going to be.

 

 

A1c Average	SBGM
12	345
11	310
10	275
9	240
8	205
7	170
6	135