The A1c is a measure of your average blood sugar for a period of
about three months prior to the test. Since methods vary from
lab to lab, you'll need to contact the lab that performed the A1c to learn
the normal range; in most labs, it's less than about 6.
If your physician has told you you have pre-diabetes, you'll have
to ask what prompted that statement. This diagnosis
is not made on the basis of an A1c and usually
refers to an abnormal blood glucose level (typically
a fasting value).
You should be concerned because
studies have shown that the onset of full-blown diabetes can at least be
delayed if proper interventions are introduced at this stage. For
further information, see
our webpages about the
diabetes prevention program
and
Diabetes Prevention Program questions & answers.
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