Final answer:
The Hemoglobin A1c test is the best indicator of long-term blood glucose levels as it measures the average glucose levels over two to three months, which is crucial for the monitoring and management of diabetes mellitus.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best indicator of long-term blood glucose level is c. Hemoglobin A1c. This lab test measures the average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months, providing an indication of how well blood glucose has been managed over that time frame. Unlike fasting blood sugar or random blood sugar tests, which only provide a snapshot of glucose levels at a single moment, the Hemoglobin A1c test offers a broad view of glucose control, making it a vital tool for endocrinologists in the diagnosis and management of diabetes mellitus. The A1c test involves measuring the percentage of glycated hemoglobin, which reflects the average blood glucose concentration to which the red blood cells have been exposed during their lifecycle.
Type 2 diabetes, an endocrine disorder where body cells do not respond properly to insulin, causing high blood glucose levels, makes the monitoring of blood glucose especially important. The A1c test is a crucial component of this monitoring, helping both patients and healthcare providers to track the effectiveness of treatment strategies.