Glycohemoglobin (A1C) distribution in school children: results from a school-based screening program

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Public Health
• Diabetes Research

Background:

• Glycohemoglobin (A1C) is a key indicator of blood glucose control.
• Type 2 diabetes risk is increasing among youth, necessitating early detection strategies.
• Establishing normal A1C ranges in children is crucial for identifying at-risk individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the normal distribution of A1C in preadolescent children (ages 11-13).
• To evaluate the feasibility of implementing a school-based fingerstick screening program for A1C.
• To investigate potential demographic differences in A1C levels among children.

Main Methods:

• Collected fingerstick capillary whole blood samples from 400 children aged 11-13 years.
• Determined A1C percentage on-site using the collected blood samples.
• Analyzed A1C data stratified by gender and ethnicity.

Main Results:

• A1C levels were significantly higher in minority boys (4.88+/-0.37%) compared to non-Hispanic white boys (4.73+/-0.41%, P<0.01).
• No significant difference in A1C levels was observed between minority and non-Hispanic white girls (4.74+/-0.41% vs. 4.75+/-0.34%, P=0.88).
• None of the students exhibited abnormal glucose tolerance based on adult standards.

Conclusions:

• Higher A1C in minority boys at this age may indicate an early predisposition to type 2 diabetes.
• The observed gender discrepancy in A1C levels warrants further investigation.
• School-based fingerstick screening for A1C is a practical approach for early detection of diabetes risk in children.