HbA1c in type 2 diabetes diagnostic criteria: addressing the right questions to move the field forwards

Diabetologia. 2012 Jun;55(6):1564-7. doi: 10.1007/s00125-012-2510-8. Epub 2012 Mar 8.

Abstract

This commentary aims to move the debate regarding the adoption of HbA(1c) for diagnosis of type 2 diabetes forwards by highlighting the need to avoid addressing irrelevant questions, in particular, comparison of individuals diagnosed with different diagnostic criteria. Instead, we provide a list of important future questions, including whether adoption of HbA(1c) as the primary diagnostic test improves uptake of diabetes screening, with resultant earlier diagnosis and improvement in outcomes.

MeSH terms

  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / diagnosis*
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / metabolism*
  • Glucose Tolerance Test
  • Glycated Hemoglobin / metabolism*
  • Humans

Substances

  • Glycated Hemoglobin A