Hemoglobin ALC Test Is An Accurate Option For Diagnosing Diabetes

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - There are millions of Americans diagnosed as diabetics and many of them are getting the treatment that they deserve but it's estimated that 25% of people with the condition are not diagnosed.

Some reasons: a lack of access to health care, the inconvenience of the blood test which can include fasting, and the fact that it's often overlooked.

One big help in this battle is the use of a test called the hemoglobin alc test as a test to diagnose diabetes. One of the big advantages of hemoglobin alc is that it's a more accurate reading over a long period of time. In addition, hemoglobin alc can't be dramatically affected by fever or illness on the day of the test.

How ever the diagnosis and treatment plans are made, the key is detecting and treating the condition.