Breakdown of the Recent Changes
Diabetes Threshold
The HbA1c level for diagnosing diabetes has been lowered from ≥ 50 mmol/mol to ≥ 48 mmol/mol.
Prediabetes Range
The prediabetes range has been revised from 41-49 mmol/mol to 42-47 mmol/mol.
Confirmatory Testing
No confirmatory test is required if the initial HbA1c is > 53mmol/mol.
For levels between 48-52 mmol/mol, a confirmatory test (such as a repeat HbA1c or glucose test) should be done as soon as practical.
Symptomatic vs. Asymptomatic
If a patient has hyperglycemic symptoms, only one HbA1c result of ≥ 48 mmol/mol is needed to confirm the diagnosis. If the patient is asymptomatic, two high readings are required.
Next Steps
Over the next few months, the practice will make contact with those patients who might be affected by the new changes.
For more information about diabetes, please visit the Healthify website.
