HbA1C
The HbA1c test (also known as A1c or glycated hemoglobin) measures average blood glucose over the past 2–3 months by assessing the percentage of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in red blood cells—hemoglobin A1C molecules.
Glucose naturally binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells in a non-enzymatic process called glycation. The more sugar in your blood, the more glycated A1C molecules you will have.1
HbA1c reflects long-term glucose control but does not capture daily fluctuations. Self-monitoring or continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is needed to assess short-term variability. Frequent highs and lows can result in a healthy-looking A1C result. Only self-monitoring can show how meals, physical activity, medications and stress affect your blood sugar over short periods of time. This provides more reference as you manage your diabetes.
Most experts recommend an HbA1c test every 3 months. Your healthcare professional will help you schedule HbA1c tests and decide what testing schedule is right for you.
References:
1 American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. 6. Glycemic Goals and Hypoglycemia: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2025. Diabetes Care. 2025;48(Suppl. 1). Available at:https://diabetesjournals.org/care/issue/48/Supplement_1. Accessed April 20, 2026.
2 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A1C and eAG. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/diabetes-testing/prediabetes-a1c-test.html…. Accessed April 20, 2026.
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