What is the role of the A1C test in diabetes management?

The A1C test plays a critical role in diabetes management by measuring the average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. This test provides a comprehensive view of how well a patient’s blood sugar has been controlled over time, rather than just at a single point of the day, which is what a fasting blood sugar test would show. By reflecting long-term glucose levels, the A1C test helps healthcare providers and patients make informed decisions about treatment adjustments, lifestyle modifications, and overall diabetes management strategies. Monitoring A1C levels is crucial because it can help reduce the risk of developing diabetes-related complications, providing a target range that individuals with diabetes should aim to achieve.

Other testing methods might focus on immediate blood sugar levels or specific complications associated with diabetes, but they do not offer the long-term trend that the A1C test provides.