Diabetics who know what the hemoglobin A1c is have better glycemic control:

Nearly half of adult patients who received care at a municipal hospital diabetes clinic did not recognize the term A1c, and fewer than one-quarter knew what their hemoglobin A1c level should be, Mary K. Rhee, M.D., reported at the annual scientific sessions of the american diabetes association.

"This lack of recognition and knowledge occurs despite a formal diabetes education and reinforcement at each patient visit," said Dr. Rhee of the department of medicine at Emory University, Atlanta.

"However, patients who recognize the term A1c and know the goal have better glycemic control. In light of these findings, education programs should include strategies that ensure that patients achieve and retain appropriate understanding of A1c and the A1c goal," she said.

The hemoglobin A1c should be checked at least every 6 months with those having good sugar control, and more frequently if they are out of control. ("Diabetics Who Know HbA1c Goal Control Glucose Better", Internal Medicine News, Aug.1)