Long-term blood sugar (HbA1c) as part of a health check

Have you ever wondered about your blood sugar levels? Are you worried you might be prediabetic, or are you simply curious? Understanding your long-term blood sugar levels is crucial for maintaining a healthy life. In this article, we'll explain what HbA1c is and how it, as part of a health check at the pharmacy, can help you keep track of your health.

What is HbA1c?

HbA1c represents the percentage of your hemoglobin that is coated with glucose (sugar). When glucose enters your bloodstream, it binds to hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries and transports oxygen. Because red blood cells have a lifespan of about 2–3 months, the HbA1c test reflects their average blood sugar levels over that period. Therefore, measuring HbA1c differs from a glucose test, which is just a snapshot of your blood sugar levels at a specific point in time. HbA1c is typically expressed as a percentage (%) or in mmol/mol. Because it's a long-term value, what you ate before the measurement doesn't matter, so you don't need to be fasting for an HbA1c test.

Why is the HbA1c value important?

Monitoring your HbA1c levels is important for several reasons. First, it helps detect prediabetes, allowing for timely intervention and lifestyle changes to prevent the development of diabetes. Second, it helps people with diagnosed diabetes effectively manage their condition through regular HbA1c tests, helping to prevent long-term complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, and nerve damage. Knowing your HbA1c levels allows you or your doctor to make informed decisions about your treatment plan, diet, and exercise program. By keeping an eye on your HbA1c, you can proactively manage your health and improve your quality of life.

Understanding HbA1c Values

Interpreting the HbA1c value is straightforward. Here is an overview of the most important value ranges:

HbA1c blood glucose values ​​at a glance: Optimal, Normal, Prediabetic or Diabetic – where do you fall?

An HbA1c value up to 5.7% indicates that your overall blood sugar level is within a healthy range. Prediabetic values ​​signal an increased risk of developing diabetes and suggest that you should adjust your lifestyle to reduce this risk. Values above 6.4% mean that you already have diabetes and need immediate medical attention to prevent complications. Lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, can bring your HbA1c levels into a healthier range and improve your long-term health.

HbA1c values up to 5.7% indicate that your overall blood sugar level is within a healthy range. ## HbA1c Measurement as Part of PrevCheck At PrevCheck and our partner pharmacies, we understand that your health is more than just a number. That's why we combine fast and reliable tests with comprehensive advice that makes all the difference. While the HbA1c value is easy to measure, it's only one piece of the puzzle. To take meaningful action based on this value, it's essential to know your exercise habits, your diet, and your family history of diabetes.

The HbA1c value can be measured with capillary blood; a small prick of the fingertip is all it takes. The measurement itself takes less than 10 minutes. You receive the results and analysis immediately as part of your report. As part of PrevCheck, you also receive a diabetes risk score that takes other factors, such as diet, into account. This report forms the basis for your consultation.

Conclusion

HbA1c is an important tool for the early detection and treatment of diabetes. Regular testing is essential for the early detection, effective treatment, and prevention of diabetes-related complications. As part of PrevCheck, we offer a convenient and reliable HbA1c measurement that empowers you to take control of your health within the context of your life.