Glycated Hemoglobin, often referred to as HbA1c, is a form of hemoglobin that is chemically linked to sugar. It forms when glucose in the blood attaches to hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. The level of HbA1c in the blood reflects the average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months, making it a useful marker for managing diabetes. Healthcare providers use HbA1c tests to monitor how well a person's blood sugar levels are controlled over time. Higher levels of glycated hemoglobin indicate poor blood sugar control, which can increase the risk of complications associated with diabetes, such as heart disease and nerve damage.