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A history of HbA1c through Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine

Philippe Gillery1

  • 1Laboratory of Pediatric Biology and Research, American Memorial Hospital, CHU of Reims, Reims, France. pgillery@chu-reims.fr

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine
|September 21, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) has evolved from its 1960s discovery to become a gold standard for monitoring diabetes. Its increasing use in clinical practice and for diagnosis highlights its importance in patient care.

Area of Science:

  • Clinical Chemistry
  • Laboratory Medicine
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) emerged in the late 1960s as a crucial marker for glycemic control.
  • Its clinical application expanded significantly from the 1970s through the 2000s, with international standardization achieved.
  • The journal Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (CCLM) has extensively featured HbA1c research.

Observation:

  • HbA1c has transitioned from a monitoring tool to a diagnostic parameter for diabetes.
  • Standardized methods and defined performance criteria have enabled new clinical applications.
  • The historical development and clinical utility of HbA1c are well-documented.

Findings:

  • The review traces the historical progression of HbA1c measurement and application.
  • It highlights the significant role of CCLM in advancing HbA1c research and standardization.
  • The evolution underscores HbA1c's established position in diabetes management and diagnostics.

Implications:

  • Standardized HbA1c assays facilitate accurate diabetes diagnosis and patient management.
  • The historical perspective provides context for current and future uses of HbA1c.
  • Continued research, as published in journals like CCLM, will further refine HbA1c's role in healthcare.

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