HbA1C, an overview and suggested formulas for the estimation of average plasma glucose from HBA1C.

Abstract

Introduction: The measurement of HbA1c plays an important role in managing Diabetes mellitus [DM] types 1 and 2. It gives the patient a further insight on diabetes control. In addition to the daily blood sugar tests that show the real-time glucose levels, HbA1c gives an insight on the long-term glucose control. Hence the patient realizes that the higher the blood glucose levels over time, the more HbA1c is formed. The formulas to convert HbA1c into an estimated Average Glucose [eAG] are many, complex and may not be memorized by the patients and investigators alike. They may not give comparable results as well. That may create difficulties when they are utilized in diabetes researches.

Content: Hence the authors have analysed six established formulas and were able to derive three simplified formulas, to help patients and doctors alike easily convert their HbA1c to eAG. The authors tried several mathematical calculations and attempts over the simplest formulas [but with a com- parable result] in order to reach to the desired formulas.

Summary: The authors suggested 3 formulas that showed around 5 % deviation from the standard formulas results.

Outlook: The suggested formulas could convert HbA1c into an [eAG] more easily than the standard formulas and make the sugar measurement easier for the patients, health care providers and investigators as well. The suggested formulas would address a real-life need which is patient understanding and simplification of diabetes management favourably.