HbA1c: More than just a number
Mawson Wang, Tien-Ming Hng
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Glycated haemoglobin, or HbA1c, is the main biomarker used to assess long-term glycaemic control in individuals with diabetes, and it correlates with the development of complications. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to provide an overview of HbA1c to understand its role in the treatment of individuals living with diabetes. Topics discussed include recommended treatment targets, methods of measurement, causes of measurement inaccuracy and alternative means available to assess glycaemic control. DISCUSSION: HbA1c should not be interpreted in isolation; the measurement accuracy and other parameters, including treatment goals and comorbidities, need to be considered.
Topics & Concepts
Computer scienceMeasure (data warehouse)Set (abstract data type)Artificial intelligenceMatching (statistics)Work (physics)Data collectionIdentification (biology)Term (time)Context (archaeology)Cardiovascular Function and Risk FactorsAtrial Fibrillation Management and OutcomesDiabetes Management and Research