Which test assesses the average blood sugar over the previous three months?

The HbA1c test is the correct answer because it specifically measures the average level of blood glucose over the past two to three months. This test works by assessing the percentage of hemoglobin molecules in the blood that have glucose attached to them, reflecting the average blood sugar levels during that time frame. It provides a more comprehensive view of a person’s glucose control compared to tests that capture only a single point in time.

In contrast, the basic glucose test measures the blood glucose level at a specific point and does not provide an average over time. The random blood sugar test also captures glucose levels at a single moment, which might vary based on various factors such as food intake or time of day. The fasting blood sugar test measures blood sugar levels after a period of fasting but, like the others, it is not indicative of long-term glucose control and only reflects the level at that particular time. Thus, for monitoring long-term blood sugar management and assessing diabetes control, the HbA1c test is the most appropriate choice.