Guidance concerning the use of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus

Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) assessment for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus overcomes many practical problems associated with traditional blood glucose measurements. However, the test is not without limitations of which the medical practitioner needs to be aware. The possibility of an individual having a medical condition that interferes with the test should always be considered, even though these conditions are rare in most Australian communities. Appropriately used, HbA1c assessment should provide a cost-effective, efficient and simple tool for the early diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.