CORRELATION OF HEMOGLOBIN A1c AND DIABETES RISK USING THE THAI DIABETES RISK SCORE

Abstract

Background: Early detection of diabetes allows prompt access to interventions that can improve microvascular and macrovascular disease outcomes. Multiple strategies have been employed, i.e., the use of diabetes risk scores including blood testing.
 Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the correlation between point-of-care hemoglobin A1c (POC HbA1c) and Thai diabetes risk score.
 Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted consisting of 252 individuals without diabetes over the age of 35. Demographic data and anthropometric measures were recorded and the blood test for POC HbA1c including plasma glucose were performed.
 Results: Of 252 participants, the mean HbA1c was 5.56 ± 0.73%, the median Thai diabetes risk score was 7 [5-10] and American Diabetes Association (ADA) risk score was 3 [2.3-4]. Males had higher risk scores than females. Weak positive correlations were observed between POC HbA1c and both Thai and ADA risk score (r = 0.226 and 0.279, respectively, p<0.001). The predictors of higher HbA1c among males were high BMI and waist circumference.
 Conclusion: A weak correlation of POC HbA1c and Thai diabetes risk score suggested that POC HbA1c may not be beneficial in screening diabetes in out-of-clinic situations; however, male participants with WC >100 cm and BMI >27.5 kg/m2 were associated with highest HbA1c.