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With the combination of genetics and the complex sugars that we as West Indians eat, diabetes has become a common health issue among the Diaspora. For those who are diagnosed with diabetes and make regular clinic visits every 3 months, your Doctor orders blood work. One of the tests done with the blood work is called Hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin A1c, or simply ‘A1c’ as it is also referred, is a test that measures how well your diabetes is controlled. What is the magic number? Normally an A1c value of approximately 4 - 5.9 mg/dl would be found in a non-diabetic. However, the acceptable number used by most clinicians for diabetics and which is considered the standard of care is a value less than 7mg/dl. Some clinicians are pushing for normal range values but for now getting your A1c less than 7mg/dl is the goal. Always ask your Doctor for your number. Management of your diabetes is partly based on this value. Know your number and you can keep your diabetes in check.
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