Table 1.

Known modifiers of glycated haemoglobin values in older adults

Artificially increases HbA1c (higher risk of hypoglycaemia if aggressive targets are established)	Artificially reduces HbA1c (higher risk of complications of hyperglycaemia and hyperosmolarity)
Iron deficiency	Bleeding conditions (e.g. peptic ulcer disease)
B12 deficiency	Haemolytic conditions (e.g. valvular cardiac disease)
Anaemia of chronic disease	Haemoglobinopathies (thalassaemia/sickle cell etc.)
Chronic opioid use	Chronic liver disease

HbA1c Glycated haemoglobin