High haemoglobin levels in Chennai diabetics a worry for doctors

The India Diabetes Care Index (iDCITM) that analyses real time data of diabetics across big cities including Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, etc. has revealed that the three-month average of the HbA1C test is at 8.4 per cent while the recommended level is less than 7 per cent. The high levels pose risk for the development of complications related to eye, heart, kidney and limbs.

The haemoglobin A1c test of a person reveals the average level of blood sugar over the past two to three months. Those who have diabetes need to undergo the test regularly to see if their levels are staying within range, while it would also help them adjust the diabetes medicines. The A1c test is also used to diagnose diabetes.

“It is worrisome that a city like Chennai has a high HbA1c number, based on the sample of people who have tested themselves at diagnostic centres. This means that there may be an even higher number of individuals who are already at risk because uncontrolled diabetes increases the chance of developing a heart disease,” said Dr V Mohan, chairman and chief diabetologist, Dr Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre.

Doctors pointed out that the test is used as a preventive mechanism for those undergoing treatment. “For any normal adult who is at the risk of diabetes, we ask them to carry out tests once a year. But for those who are undergoing medication, if the tests reveal any abnormality in the organs like kidney or eyes or sometimes even nerves, we ask them to monitor it more regularly. It is not just about numbers; it is about averting the risks that come with chronic diabetes. Especially when we carry out HbA1c test. The levels are reflective of blood glucose levels over the past six to eight weeks and do not reflect daily ups and downs of blood glucose. This is an extremely important test and has to be done a little more frequently,” Dr RP Rajesh, consultant diabetologist.

The index was introduced in 2018 by the Novo Nordisk Education Foundation (NNEF) and Novo Nordisk India in the programme called “IMPACT India: The 1000-Day Challenge” to improve diabetes care in the country. The index aims to provides a real-time view of the average HbA1c in India and its key cities.