Which of the following tests assesses chronic blood sugar levels?

The glycohemoglobin test, also known as hemoglobin A1c, is specifically designed to assess chronic blood sugar levels over an extended period—typically the past two to three months. This test measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with sugar, providing an indication of average blood glucose levels over time. It is particularly useful for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes, as it reflects long-term glycemic control rather than just a single instance of blood sugar measurement.

In contrast, the fasting insulin test mainly evaluates insulin levels in the blood after a period without food, which does not provide information about average blood sugar levels over the long term. The random glucose test measures blood sugar at a specific moment without regard to when you last ate, making it unsuitable for assessing chronic blood sugar levels. The oral glucose challenge test is typically used to diagnose diabetes, assessing how the body processes glucose at a single point rather than over time. All these tests have their specific uses, but the glycohemoglobin test is uniquely focused on tracking chronic blood sugar levels.