According to the clinical practice guidelines for the management of diabetes, having a glycosylated haemoglobin (A1c) level done every three months is an important part of managing diabetes. For most individuals, an A1c is measured every 3 months to ensure glycemic goals are met, but it can be measured every 6 months during periods of stability in treatment and self-management.
So, what is an A1c? It is a blood test that reflects an average of one’s blood glucose levels for the past three months, including pre-meal levels and post-meal levels. It will also reflect if there were periods of fluctuations in glucose levels due to stress, illness, or other factors by averaging out those glucose levels. Therefore, an A1c is an excellent marker of diabetes management over approximately the last 3 months. Consider an A1c test as a necessary tool in your toolbox to know more about your diabetes. Talk to your healthcare provider about how frequently you should have your A1c measured and what your A1c levels are.
About the author
Diana Sherifali
Diana is a nursing professor at McMaster University and has presented and led many educational, advocacy and research initiatives in Canada and globally. Her research focuses on the development and evaluation of self-management strategies to support people living with or impacted by diabetes.
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