Dear Dr. Fran Cogen,
It's a great pleasure to read your blog. I find your post very interesting. However, it should be given emphasis that a great deal of effort should be given with diagnosing diabetes in adolescents and children since this can lead to more serious problem.
As a reader, I consider your writing to be a great example of a quality and globally competitive output. It would be a great thrill and honor if you could share your genuine ideas and knowledge to our community, Physician Nexus. With this you can gain 1000 physician readers from over 62 countries on Nexus.
We would love for you to visit our community. It's free, takes seconds, and is designed for physicians only - completely free of industry bias and commercial interests.
Best,
Ruby Jean Abarcas
On behalf of the Physician Nexus Team
www.PhysicianNexus.com
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That was an interesting read. I don't think the A1c ALONE should ever be used to diagnose diabetes in anyone. As you say, the ramifications of a false diagnosis, or of a false negative are just too great.
In 1991 (and as an adult), I had fastings of 138, and 3 months later 131, which would be diagnosable today. However, 2 months after that, I had an A1c of 4.8. Fortunately, my diabetes progressed fairly rapidly, and I was diagnosed 2 years later, and was put on insulin within 5 months of diagnosis.
So I am glad that you have a sensible approach to the diagnosis of diabetes, and Type 2 in particular, and I hope your colleagues follow your lead!
Natalie: Thank you for your comments and taking the time to read the post. There will certainly be more information re hb A1c in the future!
DrC