A patient has an HbA1c of 9%. What does this indicate about glycemic control?

• A. Excellent glycemic control
• B. Good glycemic control
• C. Poor glycemic control over the prior 2-3 months
• D. Glycemic control cannot be determined

Answer: (C)

HbA1c shows how well blood glucose has been controlled over the past 2–3 months because glycated hemoglobin accumulates as red blood cells live about 120 days. An HbA1c of 9% means the average glucose has been high during that period, indicating poor glycemic control. This level corresponds to an average glucose around 210 mg/dL, well above typical targets. So the result points to poor long-term control over the prior 2–3 months.