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Hemoglobin A1c: need to standardize the term
Purpose:
To discuss studies that investigate the understanding of patients with diabetes and the information provided by physicians regarding the terminology and meaning of tests for glycated hemoglobin.
Findings:
Patients with diabetes seldom know or remember the terminology for glycated hemoglobin assay techniques, even when they are participating in self-monitoring of blood glucose. Physicians use a variety of terms for the glycated hemoglobin test and are not consistent in their terminology.
Conclusion:
One term for glycated hemoglobin assay should be used and promoted by all health-care professionals and patients. Because it is most readily remembered, "A1C" is the preferred lay term.
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