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Many people mistakenly believe it is enough to take daily blood-sugar readings with a meter. It is not. These readings give only a snapshot of how well a person's blood-sugar level is at that particular moment. The most sophisticated measure of glucose control is the A1C test (pronounced A-one-C). The A1C is a blood test that measures average blood-sugar levels over a period of two to three months. The American Diabetes Association recommends that people with diabetes maintain a level of 7 percent or below on the A1C. Lowering A1C levels can greatly reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications, such as blindness, amputations or kidney disease. For example, cutting an A1C level from 9 percent to 8 percent reduces the risk of diabetes-related death by 25 percent and reduces the risk of microvascular disease (blindness, amputations, kidney disease) by 35 percent. What can people do to lower their levels? First, consult your health-care provider about your specific health needs. Studies have shown that physical activity, such as brisk walking for 30 minutes five times a week, and maintaining a healthy weight (or losing a modest amount of weight) can dramatically lower blood-sugar levels. In some cases, people with diabetes will need to take one or more medicines and/or insulin to effectively manage their blood-sugar levels. Over time, changes in the types or amount of medications may also be needed to keep A1C levels on target. Work closely with your diabetes care team to determine the best approach for lowering your A1C. Most importantly, once you begin a program for keeping your blood sugar under control, make sure to continue monitoring your progress using the A1C. A good level today does not mean your levels are permanently under control. Diabetes is a lifelong disease. To prevent serious complications, the American Diabetes Association recommends monitoring A1C levels at least twice a year.
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While controlling blood-glucose levels is no longer considered the only step people with diabetes must take to maintain good health, it remains an important one. Yet researchers have found that very few people with diabetes truly understand the importance of monitoring blood-glucose (sugar) levels over time. 