What is Glycosylated Hemoglobin and its Importance?

What is the normal value of glycosylated hemoglobin?

The normal value of glycosylated hemoglobin is 4%-6%. This means that 4%-6% of total hemoglobin binds to glucose and remains as glycosylated hemoglobin.

What is the use of glycosylated hemoglobin?

Glycosylated hemoglobin level is used for monitoring blood sugar (glucose) control in diabetes patients. The level of glycosylated hemoglobin indirectly indicates the history of blood sugar level for the last 3-4 months and is a good indicator of long-term control of blood glucose. 6%-8% glycosylated hemoglobin in a diabetes patient indicated the blood sugar level of the patient is under control. 8% – 10% indicate the diabetes patient requires attention, such as the addition of additional medication for dietary control for diabetes. More than 10% glycosylated hemoglobin level indicates very poor control of blood sugar and needs strict monitoring of treatment and addition of insulin, if already not taken.

How the glycosylated hemoglobin test is done?

The blood sample for the glycosylated hemoglobin test is collected from a vein. Hemoglobin electrophoresis is done to separate different types of hemoglobins and the percentage of glycosylated hemoglobin is calculated. The blood sample can be collected at any time, before food or after food, as the result of glycosylated hemoglobin percentage does not get affected by food intake.