HbA1c and its influence on diabetes management

Diabetes management is a joint effort between a patient and their healthcare practitioner and support team. Information that is used to assess control is a combination of daily blood glucose results and periodic HbA1c values. Now it is possible to numerically evaluate results of daily blood glucose and HbA1c and informed decisions can be made about any need to adjust insulin treatment. The relationship between these two parameters enables treatment and lifestyle adjustments to be made to minimise long term complications of the disorder.

Regular blood glucose testing is used by diabetics to assess whether blood glucose levels are too high, too low or just right, at the time of testing. This short-term measurement can fluctuate widely. The HbA1c test, on the other hand, measures the amount of glucose in the blood over a longer period of time, approximately two to three months and is widely acknowledged as the "gold standard" measure for long term glucose control. When combined with regular blood glucose testing, HbA1c results will give a more complete picture of a person's diabetes control.

Usually, an HbA1c test is done in the laboratory, and the results are then sent to the doctor.

Now, there's a faster and easier way to get immediate results. Introducing A1cNow.

The first HbA1c test designed for home use. It's an easy-to-use, single-use, disposable test that provides accurate results in just eight minutes.