What is a lab value indicating controlled type 2 diabetes?

The indication of controlled type 2 diabetes is reflected in the HbA1c level being less than 7%. This level represents the average blood glucose over the past two to three months, providing a comprehensive overview of blood sugar control. Maintaining an HbA1c below 7% is generally considered a goal for good diabetes management. It helps healthcare providers assess how well blood sugar levels are controlled over time and is widely accepted as a standard measure for evaluating diabetes treatment effectiveness.

Other lab values, while important for overall health and diabetes management, are not as definitive for indicating control of diabetes. For instance, a fasting blood glucose level of less than 100 mg/dL is a standard measure for normal glucose levels, not specifically for diabetes control. A random blood glucose under 140 mg/dL might be seen after eating and doesn't provide the long-term control that the HbA1c does. Cholesterol levels, while significant for cardiovascular risk management, do not directly reflect diabetes control. Thus, HbA1c is the most relevant and widely used indicator for assessing the effectiveness of diabetes management.