What do high A1C levels indicate?

High A1C levels indicate a higher risk of diabetes because they reflect average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months. The A1C test measures the percentage of hemoglobin proteins in the blood that are coated with sugar (glycated hemoglobin). When blood glucose levels are consistently elevated, the A1C level rises, signaling poor long-term glucose control.

A1C levels of 5.7% to 6.4% are indicative of prediabetes, while levels of 6.5% or higher typically diagnose diabetes. Consequently, elevated A1C levels are directly correlated with an increased likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes and its associated complications, making this measurement critical in diabetes management and prevention strategies. Monitoring and addressing high A1C levels is essential for reducing the risk of diabetes-related health issues.