The hemoglobin A1c blood test shows how diabetes is being controlled. It does not monitor daily changes; it measures the levels of a person̢‰s blood glucose over a period of 6 to 12 weeks.

Hemoglobin transports oxygen and gives blood its red pigmentation. The majority of hemoglobin is hemoglobin A. It is made up of smaller parts, one of which is hemoglobin A1c. When the blood sugar levels are not controlled, sugar increases in the blood. This increase in sugar is detected with the HbA1c blood test.

Healthy glucose levels in the blood are considered less than 6%. It is the goal of physician̢‰s help keep patients with diabetes below 7%. It is suggested that people with diabetes take a HbA1c every three to six months to monitor changes in the sugar levels and keep them under control.

It is important that people with diabetes test take this blood test. The HbA1c blood test will help to prevent kidney failure, vision problems and other ailments. People with kidney disease, liver disease and anemia may get abnormal test results. Also, anyone who takes vitamin supplements like Vitamin C and Vitamin E may also get abnormal results.