What does a Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level greater than 10% indicate?

A Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level greater than 10% is indicative of poor blood glucose control over an extended period, typically the past two to three months. HbA1c is a blood test that measures the average level of glucose in the blood, and values above 6.5% are generally considered indicative of diabetes. When the HbA1c level exceeds 10%, it suggests that the individual's blood glucose has been consistently elevated, indicating difficulties in managing diabetes or potentially an undiagnosed condition. This level shows that the person's blood sugar levels have frequently exceeded the normal range, which can increase the risk of developing complications related to diabetes, such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, and kidney issues. Therefore, the identification of an HbA1c level over 10% is a crucial warning sign for health care providers to take action towards better managing the patient’s blood glucose levels.