‘My glucose is 81 mg/dL, but my A1C is prediabetic at 5.7%. Which one is right?’

Some people find themselves puzzled when their glucose reading appears normal but their A1C is slightly elevated, leading to the question: which one is correct? Dr. Vijay Negalur, Head of Diabetology at KIMS Hospitals in Thane, clarified that both readings can be accurate as they measure different aspects of blood sugar levels. A glucose level of 81 mg/dL indicates the blood sugar level at a specific moment, while HbA1c provides a broader view of average blood sugar over the past two to three months.

Dr. Negalur emphasized that a normal glucose value doesn't negate a borderline HbA1c. He explained that HbA1c captures the cumulative effect of glucose fluctuations throughout the day, which is why the two results may not line up perfectly. An HbA1c reading of 5.7% is at the lower edge of the prediabetes range, signifying it's not yet diabetes but a warning sign nonetheless. This value is below the diabetes threshold of 6.5%, which means diabetic diagnosis is not confirmed at this point.

While there's no immediate cause for alarm, it's certainly wise to take notice. Lifestyle modifications can potentially curb further progression. Regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, appropriate portion control, and moderating sugar and refined carbs intake can all contribute positively. Consulting a healthcare professional for a comprehensive assessment is advisable if the HbA1c reading is unexpected.

Depending on individual risk factors, the doctor might recommend additional tests, including fasting and post-meal glucose monitoring. Factors like anaemia or blood disorders may also influence HbA1c results, so these should be taken into account during interpretation.