Glycohemoglobin, also referred to as HbA1c, is a form of hemoglobin bound to glucose, used to assess long-term glucose control. Elevated glycohemoglobin levels are found in individuals with poorly managed diabetes mellitus. Since glucose remains attached to hemoglobin for the lifespan of a red blood cell (approximately 120 days), glycohemoglobin levels indicate the average blood glucose levels over the preceding three months.For glycohemoglobin, a normal target is below 7%. While diabetics often struggle to reach this target, strict management aims to approach it. Levels exceeding 9% indicate inadequate control, and those above 12% signal very poor control. It is typically advised to measure glycohemoglobin every three to six months in individuals with diabetes.Research from the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) highlighted that diabetics maintaining glycohemoglobin levels near 7% significantly reduce their risk of complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, and nerves, compared to those with levels of 8% or more. If levels exceed 8%, adjustments in treatment are generally necessary. Any reduction in glycohemoglobin levels enhances the likelihood of maintaining good health. Glycohemoglobin is also commonly known as HbA1c, which is its primary fraction.
