Why is monitoring A1c important?

If you're living with diabetes, it's important to monitor your A1C levels. Why? Well, monitoring the results of this little blood test

can help your health care providers determine whether the treatment you're receiving for diabetes is working.

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The test works by giving you and your health care providers an idea of your average blood sugar levels over the past few months.

A1C is typically reported as a percentage. For most adults living with diabetes, the ideal a A1C reading is less than 7%.

However, your target number may be different. So make sure you speak with your health care providers to know what your unique target is.

In general, though, the higher the A1C number, the more likely you are to experience complications

as a result of diabetes. The results of this test can help you and your health care providers determine

if there needs to be any adjustments to your treatment plan and/or your lifestyle. For instance, if your A1C numbers are consistently high,

your health care providers may suggest a change in medication or adjustments to your diet or your exercise routines.

These changes may help you avoid complications that can come from diabetes. Of course, the A1C test can also show that the treatment plan you

and your health care providers have decided on is working, and your diabetes is being managed effectively.

Typically, most folks living with diabetes take an A1C test at least twice a year.

But your health care provider will let you know if you need to take the test more often than that. Talk to your health care provider to learn more.

Together, you can take steps to manage your diabetes effectively.