Why is understanding average blood glucose control important in the management of diabetes?
In 1993, when the landmark Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) was completed, the importance of A1C as an indicator of risks for the complications of diabetes, such as blindness, kidney disease and nerve damage was firmly established. The DCCT demonstrated that keeping A1C closer to normal reduces the risk for diabetes-related complications. As A1C increases, so does the risk of complications. In 1994, the American Diabetes Association began recommending specific A1C treatment goals based on the results of the DCCT. From that time on, the goal for most people with diabetes has been less than 7%. What is the difference between A1C and the blood glucose measure obtained through daily self-monitoring? A1C results, which tend to be measured at least 2 times a year as part of a visit with the doctor, measure average blood glucose control over the past 2 to 3 months. Results from the A1C test are reported in percentage points (i.e., A1C of 7%). When people with diabetes test thei
