November is National Diabetes Month — an opportunity to learn more about blood sugar, diabetes prevention, and the importance of regular health screenings.
Diabetes affects millions of Americans, and many people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes may not experience noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
At Internal and Bariatric Medicine in Lenexa, Kansas, we believe understanding your health numbers is an important step toward prevention and long-term wellness. One of the most valuable tools for evaluating blood sugar health is the hemoglobin A1C test.
What Is an A1C Test?
The hemoglobin A1C test is a simple blood test that measures your average blood sugar level over approximately the past two to three months.
Unlike a fasting blood glucose test, an A1C test generally does not require fasting.
Healthcare providers use A1C results to help identify prediabetes, diagnose diabetes, and monitor blood sugar management in patients who already have diabetes.
Understanding Your A1C Numbers
For most nonpregnant adults, the following A1C ranges are used when screening for diabetes:
A1C LevelWhat It MeansBelow 5.7%Normal range5.7%–6.4%Prediabetes range6.5% or higherDiabetes range
An A1C result in the diabetes range generally requires confirmation with repeat or additional testing unless there is clear clinical evidence of diabetes.
Certain medical conditions, including some types of anemia, may affect A1C accuracy. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results alongside your medical history and other laboratory findings.
Why Is Prediabetes Important?
Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but have not reached the range used to diagnose diabetes.
Many individuals with prediabetes have no symptoms and may be unaware of their condition.
The encouraging news is that lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes.
Early identification provides an opportunity to take action before additional health complications develop.
The Connection Between Weight and Blood Sugar
Excess body weight, particularly around the abdomen, can contribute to insulin resistance, a condition in which the body becomes less responsive to insulin.
Insulin resistance can increase the risk of developing prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Even modest weight loss, when appropriate, may improve blood sugar regulation and overall metabolic health.
At Internal and Bariatric Medicine, our approach to obesity and cardiometabolic health focuses on individualized care, sustainable lifestyle changes, and management of related health conditions.
Five Ways to Support Healthy Blood Sugar
Stay physically active. Regular movement can improve insulin sensitivity and support cardiovascular health.
Choose balanced meals. Include fiber-rich foods, lean proteins, and appropriate portions of carbohydrates.
Maintain a healthy weight. Individualized weight management can help reduce diabetes risk.
Prioritize sleep and stress management. Healthy sleep habits and stress reduction support overall metabolic health.
Schedule preventive screenings. Routine visits and appropriate laboratory testing can help identify changes before complications develop.
How Often Should You Check Your A1C?
The frequency of A1C testing depends on your health history and individual risk factors.
People living with diabetes may need A1C testing approximately every three months when treatment is changing or blood sugar goals are not being met, and at least twice a year when blood sugar levels are stable and goals are being achieved.
Individuals with prediabetes are often monitored at least annually, depending on their risk factors and their healthcare provider's recommendations.
For most nonpregnant adults with diabetes, an A1C goal below 7% is commonly used, but treatment goals should be individualized.
Take Charge of Your Health This November
National Diabetes Month is a reminder that understanding your numbers can help you make informed decisions about your health.
At Internal and Bariatric Medicine, we provide primary care, chronic disease management, obesity and cardiometabolic health services, and nutrition counseling to support patients throughout their health journey.
Whether you have a family history of diabetes, have been diagnosed with prediabetes, or are managing type 2 diabetes, regular follow-up and individualized care can make a meaningful difference.
Know your numbers. Understand your risks. Take the next step toward better health.
Contact Internal and Bariatric Medicine in Lenexa, Kansas, to schedule an appointment and discuss whether A1C screening is appropriate for you.