A new reference method proposed by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry (IFCC) can derive the true concentration of glycated hemoglobin, with results expressed in quantitative units (mmol/mol). Experts say that the glycemic index or average blood glucose can represent the average level of long-term blood glucose control. Since average blood glucose changes are related to HbA1c, many countries have now started using the units (mmol/mol) specified by the IFCC in laboratory reports.

Glycated hemoglobin is generally formed by the non-enzymatic glycation of the N-terminal valine residue of the β-chain of hemoglobin with glucose, forming Amadori products, which are directly related to the average lifespan of red blood cells. Since the lifespan of red blood cells is 120 days, HbA1c can more objectively and clearly reflect the average blood glucose level of patients over 2-3 months.

In the latest "Chinese Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes (2020 Edition)", HbA1c has been officially included in the diagnostic criteria for diabetes, with HbA1c ≥ 6.5% as the cut-off point to assist in the diagnosis of diabetes.

The inclusion of HbA1c in the diagnostic criteria for diabetes is of great significance for improving the efficiency and accuracy of diabetes diagnosis and reducing the rate of missed diagnoses. HbA1c is a key indicator for clinical follow-up, and the guidelines emphasize individualized HbA1c control targets. HbA1c is also the gold standard for blood glucose control. Using HbA1c as the basis for diagnosing and controlling diabetes can not only scientifically and accurately assess the blood glucose status of diabetic patients but also predict and evaluate potential complications in diabetic patients, and judge the stability and efficacy of blood glucose control.

IFCC (mmol/mol): 0~150

DCCT (%): 0~16

Average Blood Glucose (mg/dL): 0~414

Average Blood Glucose (mmol/L): 0~23