DiabetesTeam

Are readings like 6.6 from outside the US real-time blood sugar or A1c results?

Great question! When you see members from outside the US posting numbers like 6.6, they're most likely sharing their real-time blood glucose readings, not A1c results. The difference comes down to how blood sugar is measured in different Show Full Answer

Are readings like 6.6 from outside the US real-time blood sugar or A1c results?

Great question! When you see members from outside the US posting numbers like 6.6, they're most likely sharing their real-time blood glucose readings, not A1c results. The difference comes down to how blood sugar is measured in different countries.

In the US, blood glucose is measured in mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter), which typically shows readings like 120, 150, or 200. Outside the US, many countries use mmol/L (millimoles per liter), which gives lower numbers like 6.6, 8.3, or 11.

A1c is always reported as a percentage (like 6.5% or 7%) and represents your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months. It's measured the same way worldwide through a blood test at your doctor's office or lab.

So when you see those lower numbers from international members, they're talking about their daily glucose readings, just measured in a different unit. There aren't home A1c meters - A1c testing requires a blood sample analyzed by a lab.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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