What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Cardio IQ® Hemoglobin A1C Blood Test to evaluate the average amount of glucose in the blood over an extended period and help manage blood sugar levels. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends biannual glycated hemoglobin testing (HbA1c) for patients with stable glycemia and quarterly testing for patients with poor glucose control. Researchers believe that keeping the blood sugar in the body within a normal range can help people with diabetes avoid many of the risks and side effects of diabetes. For many people with diabetes, the goal is to keep the level below 7%.
Additionally, a significant benefit of the hemoglobin A1c blood test is that it provides information on overall glycemic health over several months. Other blood tests that evaluate glucose levels are highly sensitive to determining glucose levels at the time of collection, but they do not give information on average glucose blood levels. Hemoglobin is stored in the red blood cells. When glucose levels are high, the sugar starts to combine with the hemoglobin. It takes the body 8 to 12 weeks to bring hemoglobin A1c levels back to normal. Therefore, if hemoglobin A1c levels are high, there has been a high glucose level in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months.
What conditions cause abnormal hemoglobin A1c levels?
It is important to note that other underlying health factors or conditions unrelated to diabetes may cause an abnormal hemoglobin A1c result. Other factors that may affect hemoglobin A1c levels include:
- Anemia
- High-dose aspirin
- Iron, vitamin B12, or folate deficiency
- Pregnancy
- Chronic kidney disease and its treatment
- Blood transfusion recipients
- Hereditary disorders (sickle cell disease)
- High alcohol consumption
When should I order a Cardio IQ® Hemoglobin A1C Blood Test?
Individuals may order this test to determine their risk of diabetes or to keep track of their blood glucose, allowing their healthcare provider to adjust treatment plans and lower the chances of health problems. Common symptoms associated with unmanaged hemoglobin A1C levels include:
- Eye disease
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Nerve damage
- Stroke
Sample Report
Also Known As:
Hemoglobin A1c, Cardio IQ®; CardioIQ®; Glycated Hemoglobin Test
Preparation:
No special preparation is required.
Test Results:
3-5 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
