In the ABCs of Diabetes, 'A' Stands for A1C

(ARA) - You probably have heard that you can prevent diabetes-related complications such as heart, eye and kidney disease, by maintaining your blood sugar. So you checked your blood sugar regularly and assumed you were doing enough. Unfortunately, you were wrong.

Daily finger-prick checks provide a limited measure of your diabetes management, because the test is only a snapshot of your health at any moment. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) urges people with diabetes to take an A1C test (pronounced A-one-C). This measures average blood sugar levels over a three-month period and is the only accurate measure of overall diabetes control.

A1C is measured in percentages. People without diabetes have a level of about 5 percent. The ADA recommends that people with diabetes keep levels below 7 percent. Unfortunately, average levels for Americans with diabetes are nearly 9 percent, a level at high risk for complications. Small changes in A1C levels can make a big difference. Lowering levels just one point can reduce complications by 30 to 35 percent and cuts the risk of heart attacks by 18 percent. But each point over 7 doubles that risk.

To lower your A1C, consult your health professional about your specific health needs. You may need to lose weight, change your meal plan or increase your activity levels. Medications are often needed to manage blood sugar. Over time, changes in the types or amounts are necessary to stay on target. Work closely with your health care team to determine the best approach.

Test your A1C on a regular basis. Checking levels at least twice a year, in addition to self-monitoring, will help you see how well you are managing your diabetes.

The American Diabetes Association and the American College of Cardiology are partners in an educational initiative called "Make the Link! Diabetes, Heart Disease and Stroke." Managing the diabetes ABCs - A1C, Blood pressure and Cholesterol -- will help reduce your risk for heart attacks and strokes.