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Hba1c testing - every 3 or 6 months?

Answered byDr. Pavan Kumar UppulaMBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Endocrinology)
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Patient's Query

30 years old • female
Some people get their HbA1c checked every three months, others every six months. How do I determine which schedule is best for me? Does more frequent testing improve my diabetes control?

Doctor Answers

Dr. Pavan Kumar Uppula
Dr. Pavan Kumar Uppula
Endocrinologist

HbA1c testing frequency depends on individual diabetes management and stability:

  • Every 3 months: Recommended if your diabetes is not well-controlled, you've recently adjusted medication, or if you are initiating new therapies.

  • Every 6 months: Adequate if your blood glucose has been consistently stable, with no medication changes or complications.

Regular A1C checks help identify trends early, facilitating timely lifestyle or treatment modifications. More frequent testing is beneficial if your diabetes fluctuates significantly, as it offers better insights and quicker adjustments.

Discuss your specific testing schedule with your healthcare provider, who will advise based on your individual diabetes control and risk factors.

References:

  1. American Diabetes Association. (2023). Glycemic Targets and Testing Frequency. Diabetes Care, 46(Suppl 1), S97–S110.
  2. UK Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) Group. (1998). Intensive glucose control and complications. Lancet, 352(9131), 837–853.
  3. Nathan, D. M., et al. (2008). Translating the A1C assay into clinical practice. Diabetes Care, 31(8), 1473–1478.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this Q&A is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance and treatment recommendations.