blood sugar level

A1C Test

The tests you do at home show your blood sugar level at that moment. The A1C test shows your average blood sugar level over the past two or three months. It's the best way to see how well your type 2 diabetes is controlled.

It usually takes two to three months to see changes in your A1C. So, you may get this test two to four times a year, depending on how well your treatment is working. The A1C blood test is usually done at your doctor's office.

The American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) recommends that people with type 2 diabetes reach an A1C goal of 6.5% or less. Reaching this goal is important, since every 1% increase above 6% raises your risk for diabetes-related complications . You and your doctor will set a goal that's right for you. If your levels rise above your personal goal, you may need to change your diabetes medicine, or add new medicine and review your Treatment Plan.

Are You in Control

The chart below shows how an average daily blood sugar number might compare to an A1C number. (Note that these blood sugar numbers are for tests done in a lab. If you test your blood sugar at home, your numbers may be a little lower.)