The measurement of HbA1c is a key tool in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. For health care professionals involved in the management of diabetes in the UK there is an additional complication, between 2009 and 2011, with a change of HbA1c units. The old DCCT percentage is giving way to the internationally recognised IFCC units of mmol/mol in 2011.
To further the understanding of HbA1c measurements, we have summarised the important issues and then appended a number of case studies involving a wide range of patients from children to the elderly, showing the measurements in both the ‘old’ and ‘new’ units. These cover a wide range of diabetes-related conditions and describe the treatment plans and follow-up. We hope that this book will be a useful resource for all those involved in diabetes care as they come to terms with IFCC reporting.
This cannot be the last word on the measurement or role of HbA1c and we look forward to continuing the interaction with colleagues in the UK and further afi eld.
Adapting to the IFCC system of reporting HbA1c poses a challenge to generations of health professionals who have learnt the percentage system related to the major clinical trials, in type 1 and type 2 diabetes, the DCCT and UKPDS. This handy paperback illuminates the transition path.
Using real-life case studies to illustrate actual clinical situations, the book shows you how to use mmol/mol units in daily practice. Each case study shows the old percentage units alongside the IFCC units for quick comparison. Produced in association with Diabetes UK, this pocketbook helps you work with confidence in the IFCC system.
