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Hba1C level chart. HbA1c Levels: Understanding the A1c Chart, Test, and Normal Range

by alexxlab

What is the HbA1c test. How does it measure blood glucose levels. What are normal HbA1c ranges for diabetics and non-diabetics. How often should you get an HbA1c test. What factors can affect HbA1c levels.

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What is HbA1c and Why is it Important?

HbA1c, also known as glycated hemoglobin or A1c, is a crucial measure for assessing long-term blood glucose control in individuals with diabetes. This test provides valuable insights into average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, offering a more comprehensive view than daily glucose monitoring.

The full form of HbA1c is hemoglobin A1c. It refers to hemoglobin molecules in red blood cells that have glucose attached to them. As blood glucose levels rise, more hemoglobin becomes glycated, resulting in higher HbA1c percentages.

Key Benefits of HbA1c Testing:

  • Provides a long-term view of glucose control
  • Helps assess the effectiveness of diabetes management strategies
  • Identifies individuals at risk for diabetes complications
  • Guides treatment decisions and medication adjustments

Understanding the HbA1c Chart: Normal Ranges and Interpretations

Interpreting HbA1c results is crucial for effective diabetes management. The HbA1c chart provides a clear framework for understanding what different percentages mean in terms of glucose control.

HbA1c Normal Range Chart:

  • Non-diabetic: Below 5.7%
  • Prediabetes: 5.7% – 6.4%
  • Diabetes: 6.5% or above

For individuals with diagnosed diabetes, the target HbA1c range may vary based on individual factors and treatment goals. Generally, maintaining an HbA1c below 7% is associated with a lower risk of diabetes-related complications.

Interpreting HbA1c Results:

How do HbA1c percentages correlate with average blood glucose levels? Here’s a quick reference:

  • 5% HbA1c ≈ 97 mg/dL (5.4 mmol/L)
  • 6% HbA1c ≈ 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L)
  • 7% HbA1c ≈ 154 mg/dL (8.6 mmol/L)
  • 8% HbA1c ≈ 183 mg/dL (10.2 mmol/L)
  • 9% HbA1c ≈ 212 mg/dL (11.8 mmol/L)

The HbA1c Test: Procedure and Frequency

The HbA1c test is a simple blood test that can be performed at any time of day, without the need for fasting. A small blood sample is taken and analyzed to determine the percentage of glycated hemoglobin.

How Often Should You Get an HbA1c Test?

The frequency of HbA1c testing depends on various factors, including diabetes status and overall health. Here are general guidelines:

  • Non-diabetic adults over 45: Every 3 years
  • Individuals with prediabetes: Annually
  • People with well-controlled diabetes: Twice a year
  • Those with unstable glucose levels or recent treatment changes: Every 3 months

Your healthcare provider may recommend more frequent testing based on individual circumstances, such as pregnancy or a history of hypoglycemia.

Factors Influencing HbA1c Levels

While HbA1c is primarily a reflection of blood glucose levels, several factors can affect the results:

Physiological Factors:

  • Red blood cell lifespan
  • Certain hemoglobin variants
  • Pregnancy
  • Kidney or liver disease

Lifestyle and Treatment Factors:

  • Diet and exercise habits
  • Medication adherence
  • Stress levels
  • Sleep patterns

Understanding these influencing factors is crucial for accurately interpreting HbA1c results and making informed treatment decisions.

Strategies for Lowering HbA1c Levels

For individuals with elevated HbA1c levels, implementing lifestyle changes and following treatment plans can help bring glucose levels into a healthier range. Here are some effective strategies:

Dietary Modifications:

  • Focus on low glycemic index foods
  • Increase fiber intake
  • Control portion sizes
  • Limit refined carbohydrates and added sugars

Physical Activity:

  • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week
  • Incorporate both aerobic and resistance training
  • Break up prolonged periods of sitting with short activity breaks

Medication Management:

  • Take prescribed medications as directed
  • Monitor blood glucose levels regularly
  • Discuss any concerns or side effects with your healthcare provider

Stress Reduction and Sleep Optimization:

  • Practice stress-management techniques like meditation or deep breathing
  • Prioritize getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night
  • Establish a consistent sleep schedule

By implementing these strategies, many individuals have successfully lowered their HbA1c levels and improved their overall health. It’s important to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a personalized plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.

HbA1c Testing vs. Daily Blood Glucose Monitoring

While both HbA1c testing and daily blood glucose monitoring are valuable tools in diabetes management, they serve different purposes and provide complementary information.

HbA1c Testing:

  • Provides a long-term view of glucose control (2-3 months)
  • Doesn’t require fasting or specific timing
  • Less affected by day-to-day fluctuations
  • Typically performed every 3-6 months

Daily Blood Glucose Monitoring:

  • Offers immediate feedback on current glucose levels
  • Helps identify patterns and trends throughout the day
  • Guides short-term decisions about food, activity, and medication
  • Can be performed multiple times daily

Used together, these two methods provide a comprehensive picture of glucose control, allowing for more effective diabetes management and treatment adjustments.

The Role of HbA1c in Diabetes Prevention and Management

HbA1c testing plays a crucial role in both the prevention and management of diabetes. Understanding its significance can empower individuals to take proactive steps towards better health.

In Diabetes Prevention:

HbA1c testing can identify individuals with prediabetes, a condition characterized by elevated blood glucose levels that are not yet in the diabetic range. Early detection of prediabetes allows for timely intervention through lifestyle modifications, potentially preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes.

In Diabetes Management:

For those already diagnosed with diabetes, regular HbA1c testing serves several important functions:

  • Assessing the effectiveness of current treatment plans
  • Guiding decisions about medication adjustments
  • Motivating patients by providing tangible evidence of their efforts
  • Identifying the need for more intensive management strategies
  • Predicting the risk of long-term diabetes complications

By regularly monitoring HbA1c levels and working towards target ranges, individuals with diabetes can significantly reduce their risk of complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney problems, and nerve damage.

Emerging Technologies in HbA1c Monitoring

As technology advances, new methods for monitoring HbA1c are being developed to provide more convenient and frequent assessments of long-term glucose control.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) and Estimated HbA1c:

Some CGM devices now offer an estimated HbA1c based on continuous glucose data collected over time. While not a replacement for laboratory HbA1c tests, these estimates can provide valuable insights between formal tests.

At-Home HbA1c Testing Kits:

Several companies have developed at-home HbA1c testing kits, allowing individuals to monitor their levels more frequently without visiting a healthcare facility. These kits typically involve collecting a small blood sample and mailing it to a laboratory for analysis.

Point-of-Care HbA1c Testing:

Rapid HbA1c tests that can be performed in clinics or pharmacies are becoming more widely available. These tests provide results within minutes, allowing for immediate discussion and treatment adjustments during healthcare visits.

While these emerging technologies offer exciting possibilities for more frequent and convenient HbA1c monitoring, it’s important to note that they should be used in conjunction with, not as a replacement for, regular laboratory HbA1c tests under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

HbA1c and Personalized Diabetes Care

The interpretation and application of HbA1c results are increasingly being tailored to individual patient needs and circumstances. This personalized approach to diabetes care takes into account various factors that can influence both HbA1c levels and appropriate treatment goals.

Factors Considered in Personalized HbA1c Targets:

  • Age and life expectancy
  • Duration of diabetes
  • Presence of cardiovascular disease or other complications
  • Risk of hypoglycemia
  • Patient’s ability to recognize and manage hypoglycemia
  • Individual preferences and quality of life considerations

For example, while a general HbA1c target of less than 7% is often recommended, a slightly higher target might be appropriate for older adults with multiple health conditions to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia. Conversely, a lower target might be set for younger individuals with newly diagnosed diabetes and no complications.

Integrating HbA1c with Other Health Metrics:

HbA1c results are most valuable when considered alongside other health metrics and risk factors. A comprehensive diabetes management plan might include:

  • Blood pressure monitoring and management
  • Lipid profile assessments
  • Kidney function tests
  • Regular eye examinations
  • Foot care and neuropathy screening

By taking a holistic approach that considers HbA1c alongside these other factors, healthcare providers can develop more effective and personalized treatment strategies for individuals with diabetes.

The Future of HbA1c Testing and Diabetes Management

As our understanding of diabetes and glucose metabolism continues to evolve, so too does the role of HbA1c testing in diabetes care. Several exciting developments are on the horizon that could reshape how we approach glucose monitoring and diabetes management.

Artificial Intelligence and Predictive Analytics:

Researchers are exploring the use of AI algorithms to analyze HbA1c trends alongside other health data to predict future glucose control and diabetes-related complications. This could allow for more proactive interventions and personalized treatment adjustments.

Integration with Wearable Technology:

The combination of continuous glucose monitoring systems with other wearable health devices could provide a more comprehensive picture of how lifestyle factors impact long-term glucose control. This integrated approach could offer real-time insights and personalized recommendations for improving HbA1c levels.

Gene-Based HbA1c Interpretations:

Advances in genetic research may lead to more nuanced interpretations of HbA1c results based on individual genetic profiles. This could account for variations in red blood cell lifespan and other factors that influence HbA1c levels, leading to more accurate assessments of glucose control.

Novel Biomarkers:

While HbA1c remains a gold standard for assessing long-term glucose control, researchers are investigating additional biomarkers that could complement or enhance HbA1c testing. These may offer insights into glucose variability or provide earlier indicators of diabetes-related complications.

As these and other advancements continue to emerge, the landscape of diabetes management is likely to become increasingly sophisticated and personalized. However, the fundamental importance of HbA1c as a key indicator of glucose control is expected to remain central to diabetes care for the foreseeable future.

In conclusion, understanding HbA1c levels, their implications, and the factors that influence them is crucial for effective diabetes management. Regular HbA1c testing, combined with daily glucose monitoring and lifestyle modifications, empowers individuals to take control of their health and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications. As technology and medical knowledge continue to advance, the role of HbA1c in personalized diabetes care is likely to become even more significant, offering new opportunities for improved outcomes and quality of life for those living with diabetes.

Check HbA1c Normal Range, Levels, Meaning & Full Form

Last updated on July 17th, 2023

Haemoglobin is a kind of molecule that is present in red blood cells and helps in carrying oxygen to the body’s tissue. The full form of  hba1c is haemoglobin A1c or HbA1c or glycosylated haemoglobin. It is a form of haemoglobin that contains sugar. Read this blog to know what the hba1c test means, the normal range of hba1c chart in detail with cost, and how 1000s of people have been able to achieve normal HbA1c levels through the Diabetes Reversal Method.

HBa1c test chart normal ranges

Diabetics have a higher amount of glycosylated haemoglobin levels is contrary, unlike non-diabetics. Thus, to meet a controlled level of blood sugar, it is better to do HbA1c tests.

Table of Contents

Need to Monitor HbA1c Level

Blood Glucose levels can fluctuate every minute depending upon your activity and the food you eat. Therefore, it is important to regularly monitor your blood glucose or sugar levels as it helps in understanding how your blood glucose levels are changing and how your meals are affecting them. But a proper diet plan with constant push and motivation can help you regulate your blood glucose levels.

Generally, urine tests and daily prick methods were used to measure sugar levels in people with high blood sugar levels. Although these tests are somewhat accurate but can give false reports at times. HbA1c test is helpful in measuring average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. People with diabetes are required to get this test done regularly so that they can keep a check on their blood sugar levels. This ultimately helps in diabetes management.

Improving lifestyle, i.e sleeping patterns, controlling the diet (what and how much to eat), and proper fitness guidance is helpful in maintaining a healthy and hba1c normal range for life. I have seen people reducing their HbAc1 from 9.8 to 5.6 during the Diabetes Reversal Program.

Also Read: Normal Blood Sugar Levels Chart

How Often is HbA1c Test Required?

As per the ADA, diabetes screening is recommended in people with age more than 45 years (every 3 years). Also, it is fine to perform screening at any age, in case a person has risk factors like:

  • Being obese or physically inactive

  • Having close relative suffering from diabetes

  • Had diabetes during pregnancy (referred to as gestational diabetes)

  • Having symptoms of insulin resistance or conditions related to insulin resistance like hypertension, low good cholesterol, high triglycerides, as well as polycystic ovary syndrome

Patients having diabetes with stable blood sugar levels must go for an hba1c test roughly twice a year. Your doctor might recommend quarterly monitoring (every 3 months) in case of:

  • A recent diagnosis of diabetes

  • Pregnancy-related diabetes

  • Altering HbA1c levels

  • Modifications in treatment or insulin dose

  • A history of hypoglycemia (low blood glucose)

Read More: Signs and Symptoms Of Diabetes

Reasons for Fluctuations in HbA1c Normal Range

Use of Insulin, fasting, oral intake of glucose, or frequent fluctuations in your blood sugar levels are the most common reasons for the alteration in glycosylated hemoglobin levels. If people with diabetes notice the fluctuations in their glycosylated Hb level, they should consult doctors to maintain their HbA1c levels at the normal range. This helps in reducing risks and avoiding complications due to diabetes.

Getting rid of Insulin and other medications by proper sleeping, eating, and workout habits sounds impossible. But I have come across many people who have been able to regularise their Glycosylated Haemoglobin Levels and live a healthy life after successful Diabetes Reversal.

Also Read: List of Important Blood Sugar Tests

The Measure of Glucose in Glycosylated Haemoglobin

In the glycosylated hemoglobin test (A1c test), the percentage of hemoglobin that is bound to glucose is measured. The average concentration of blood glucose is reflected in this test after three months. The glycosylated hemoglobin can be measured in percentage or in units of mmol/mol. This is now a standard unit in which glycosylated hemoglobin is measured all over the world.

Read More: Best Glucometers to Buy in 2022 

Know Your Normal Range of HbA1c With the Help of a Chart

hba1c normal range chart

Levels of HbA1c For Normal, Pre Diabetic, and Diabetic Person

People can have different normal ranges of HbA1c. Here you can check out with the help of the hba1c normal range chart, what should be the normal levels of glycosylated hemoglobin for individuals:

  • In Non-Diabetic People: Several reports have revealed that the complications of diabetes can be reduced if your HbA1c test range is below 7%. A healthy person can have HbA1c measure less than 6% of the total hemoglobin. Below 6.0%, or below 42 mmol/mol is the normal value of hba1c for a non-diabetic adult.

  • In a Pre-Diabetic Person: If your blood sugar levels are slightly higher than the normal range then you are a pre-diabetic person. Your diabetes levels are not too high to be considered type-2 diabetes. With a proper lifestyle and diet management, you can control your diabetes at this level through Diabetes Reversal Method and can attain a normal range of HbA1c values is 6.0% to 6.4%, or 42 to 47 mmol/mol.

  • In Diabetic People: Any person suffering from type-2 diabetes then your normal value is 6.5% or above, or 48 mmol/mol or above. This hba1c test range may be normal but there is a need for proper guidance from doctors and medications along with healthy lifestyle changes to maintain the range. If your value goes beyond the mentioned range then it can increase the risk of heart stroke, peripheral artery disease, glaucoma, diabetic foot, diabetic kidney disease, and more.

Over 10000 pre-diabetic and diabetic people have successfully come from the orange and red zone (dangerous, deadly) to the green zone (optimal, super optimal) by making sustainable lifestyle changes. A few people I know didn’t believe that diabetes reversal is possible or one can be off diabetes and other medications before they got on a call with us. They believed, worked towards their goal with proper guidance of coaches, and are now Diabetes free.

Read More: Can Diabetics Eat Jaggery?

HbA1c Target Levels in Diabetics

A person’s target A1C level is set on the basis of several factors. The right target differs from individual to individual. For any diabetic patient, the target A1C level might be based upon:

  • Age

  • Overall health

  • Pregnant or not

  • History of diabetes

  • Their recommended treatment plan

  • Any complications from diabetes

  • An individual’s treatment priorities

A Healthcare Provider May Suggest a Target of A1C levels Under 6.5% if an Individual:

  • Is young and has a long-life expectancy

  • Has a history of diabetes over a short period

  • Is successfully managing his or her diabetes via lifestyle alterations or metformin alone

A Healthcare Provider May Suggest a Target of A1C levels of 7.

0–8.5% if a Person:

  • Is older and has a shorter life expectancy

  • Has a history of diabetes over a longer period

  • Has other chronic medical problems

  • Suffering from diabetes which is difficult to manage, even with multiple drugs

  • Has experienced diabetic complications

  • Has a history of serious hypoglycemia

Read More: Natural Remedies to Control your Diabetes at Home

Not all High Values of HbA1c Tests Means You are Diabetic

If you get a high HbA1c level, it does not mean that you are suffering from high diabetes. Many people come with different types of haemoglobin, except type A. The condition is hemoglobinopathy. It states the high or low values of HbA1c.

If you are anemic or struggling with iron deficiency in your body then also you are likely to get the wrong values on the average of 3-month diabetes test. Therefore, if you want the average of 3 months of blood glucose tests done, make sure you are not anemic.

There are some medications also well which can alter your results of glycosylated hemoglobin test levels. These include:

  • Supplements like Vitamin C or E, iron, vitamin B12, and folate

  • Erythropoietin therapy

  • Aspirin

  • Antiviral and antimicrobial medicines.

If you are going for a glycosylated hemoglobin test, your doctor will make sure of the factors that can affect your test results.

Quantity and quality of food can have a great impact on your haemoglobin levels, which can get you incorrect values. There was a patient who had high-level stress of being diabetic because of high HbAc1 level. With stress comes so many other problems like insomnia, fatigue, low energy levels, suicidal thoughts etc. After consultation calls and joining the Diabetes Reversal Program, he is now enjoying a healthy lifestyle. This lifestyle includes nutritious food products available in the kitchen. And all the products suit his body, also he can do exercises at home or at office.

Book your consultation with a Diabetes expert now. Diabetes Specialists assist in transforming lifestyles. They deal with the emotional issues that this condition can bring. With a unique blend of interconnected technology and human touch, a person can stay connected to our diabetes-focused holistic support all over the day.

What Causes High or Low Haemoglobin A1c Levels?

The level of haemoglobin A1c is largely dependent upon the blood sugar levels. The higher the blood glucose (sugar) level, the higher the amount of haemoglobin A1c. The higher the value of HbA1c, the greater the risk of experiencing complications associated with diabetes. Somebody who has had unmanaged diabetes for a long time may have a level of more than 8%. Factors responsible for altering the levels of haemoglobin A1c include:

  • Oral or intravenous glucose consumption

  • Fasting

  • Insulin usage

  • Combinations of any of the above-stated factors

Individuals with ailments influencing haemoglobin, like anaemia, might get ambiguous outcomes with this test. Other things that might influence the outcomes of the haemoglobin A1c involve supplements including vitamins C and E as well as high cholesterol levels. Kidney ailments and liver ailments are also seen to affect the test.

Also Read: Indian Diet Chart for Diabetics

How Does A1c work?

A1c testing depends upon haemoglobin. haemoglobin is present in the person’s RBC and transfers oxygen all through the body. When glucose is present in the blood, it sticks (glycates) to the haemoglobin. Higher amount of glucose in the blood results in more sticking to the haemoglobin. The A1c test assesses the average sugar sticking to haemoglobin over time.

What are A1C and eAG and What are the Differences?

If a person is diabetic and tracks his or her blood sugar levels, then the physician may report A1C results as eAG. The reporting of eAG results occurs in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) or millimoles per liter (mmol/l) units. For instance, 7% A1c level is equal to eAG of 154 mg/dl or 8.6 mmol/l.

Does Low Haemoglobin Affect A1C?

Low hemoglobin has a straightforward relationship with the levels of HbA1c. This means that haemoglobin level drops when hemoglobin levels dropdown.

There are so many food items in our kitchen that are full of nutrients but most of us are not aware of those. As I recall, a patient over the consultation call told us about her not wanting to consume supplements to fulfill her nutrient requirements but was looking for a diet that includes staple food. A personal diet coach helped her with a diet chart, customised according to her body requirements and easy to follow for life.

Haemoglobin A1c Conversion Chart (HbA1c chart)

Till now there is no specific guideline by concerned health organizations for using haemoglobin A1c test as the tool to screen diabetes. However, HbA1c high values indicate that a person may have diabetes.

The following chart shows the correlation between HbA1c levels and average blood sugar levels.










HbA1c Test Normal Range Chart
A1(%)Mean blood sugar (mg/dl)
6135
7170
8205
9240
10275
11305
12340

Studies have shown that 1% reduction in HbA1c glucose level reduces the risk of microvascular diseases up to 10%. Thus, when you get closer to HbA1c normal level, the absolute risk of microvascular diseases or complications also gets lower.

Also Read: C-Reactive Protein or CRP Normal Levels Chart For Adults

Benefits of HbA1c Test Over Other Diabetes Tests

Choose the HbA1c test over other diabetes tests due to its many benefits. Some of the benefits include:

  • No need for preparations: For the HbA1c test, there is no need for preparations in advance. A person can do this test at any time of the day. But, the other diabetes tests need fasting. For this test, a person has to fast for at least 5-6 hours. After the fasting test, there is another following meal blood test. This helps in giving the levels of your blood sugar post-meal.

  • No special diet to follow: An oral glucose tolerance test also diagnoses diabetes. There is a need to follow a special diet for 3 days before this test. Along with this, a person has to fast overnight before the test. Yet, while going for an HbA1c check, a person may eat or drink anything as per liking.

  • Convenient and time-saving: Within some hours, many blood tests are done. This helps to detect blood sugar levels in several other tests to diagnose or check sugar levels. Yet, HbA1c is a single blood test. A person even gets the HbA1c report within 24 hours of the test and the procedure is also easy.

Limitations of Measuring Value of Haemoglobin A1c

A Haemoglobin a1c blood test is not suitable if a person is highly diabetic. The blood sugar level does not affect the values of HbA1c. A person also cannot diagnose the presence or absence of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Besides, a person can get the false high value of HbA1c levels in conditions like: 

  1. Kidney failure

  2. High intake of alcohol

  3. Anemia

  4. Thalassemia

  5. Sickle cell disease

Also Read: Do Antibiotics Raise Blood Sugar

What are the Advantages of Reducing HbA1c?

Some recent studies depicted that an improvement in HbA1c by 1% (or 11 mmol/mol) for individuals experiencing type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes reduces the risk of microvascular complications by 25%.

Microvascular complications can be:

  • Neuropathy

  • Retinopathy

  • Diabetic nephropathy (renal disorder)

Studies have also found that individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes who lessen their HbA1c level by 1% are:

  • 19% less expected to experience cataracts

  • 16% less expected to experience heart failure

  • 43% less expected to experience amputation or death as a result of peripheral vascular disease.

Also Read: Effects of Having Madhunashini Vati in Diabetes

Natural Ways to Bring Normal Range of HbA1c

Those who have higher levels of HbA1c can bring down the level of HbA1c to the normal range through medications. Apart from this, there are some natural ways as well which can bring your HbA1c normal. These include:

  • Quit smoking to get haemoglobin A1c levels down.

  • You should eat a balanced and healthy diet to maintain the immune system and hormonal balance.

  • Exercising is another natural way to control the increased glycosylated haemoglobin levels and it helps in losing weight and lowering blood sugar which ultimately results in enhancing insulin sensitivity.

  • Adopt a healthy lifestyle to keep your blood sugar levels in control.

You can easily achieve this without disturbing your daily schedule like Ms. Dheeraj Sabharwal who has been able to reduce her HbA1c level from 9. 8 to 6.2 by switching to a healthy lifestyle with the constant support and motivation of a Diet Coach, Fitness Coach the Diabetologist. She has successfully reversed diabetes while pursuing her teaching profession and also taking care of the family.

Also Read: Top 10 Homeopathic Medecines for Diabetes

FAQ’s:

What is a good A1C level for type 2 diabetes?

An A1c objective in the range of 7% to 8% is sensible and advantageous for many type 2 diabetics. Even if, if lifestyle modifications may get that number lower, then aim for it.

Is HbA1C 8.5 normal?

For non-diabetics, the normal HbA1c level ranges between 4% and 5.6%. The levels between 5.7% and 6.4% indicates prediabetes and a greater possibility of diabetes. HbA1c of 6.5% or greater indicates diabetes.

What are the symptoms of high HbA1C?

Signs of high HbA1C may include fatigue, urinating more often, weight loss, and irregular thirst.

Can HbA1C be high without diabetes?

As per research studies, 3.8% of non-diabetics have a raised A1C level (above 6.0). This class is perhaps found to have other risk factors for heart problems or type 2 diabetes.

Can I drink water before HbA1C test?

Yes, you can have water on empty stomach prior to a blood test. Actually, drinking enough water makes sure that you get precise test results. Dehydration may have an effect on blood tests like electrolyte, cholesterol, and BUN tests.

What is HbA1C test used for?

HbA1c test is another term for glycated hemoglobin test. It is useful for evaluating average blood glucose levels for previous three months. HbA1C is vital for every diabetic patient.

What is normal a1c levels for non diabetics?

The normal value of HbA1c blood test for non-diabetics is between 4% to 5.6%. i.e between 68 to 100 mg/dL

What does a1c stand for?

When the glucose binds to hemoglobin (Hb) it becomes Glycated hemoglobin HbA1c. A stands for adult and HbA1c is the most common type of hemoglobin present in blood that binds to glucose. Thus this test measures the amount of glucose binded to HbA1c.

What is hba1c glycated haemoglobin used for?

HbA1c test or Glycosylated hemoglobin test is a blood test carried out to find out whether you are diabetic or not. Glucose in our body binds to hemoglobin present in the blood. Thus, this blood test calculates the amount of glucose that binds to hemoglobin. Hemoglobin have a lifespan of 3 months. Thus, this test value gives the average amount of glucose present in the blood for past 3 months.

How does a1c test work?

HbA1C test works by measuring the amount of glucose that binds with the hemoglobin. A blood sample is drawn fromthe patient and the amount of binded hemoglobin and glucose is measured in percentage. If the values are less than 5.7 then the result outcome is normal.

What does the hba1c test indicate?

The Hemoglobin A1c blood test value measures the average amount of glucose present in the blood for the past 3 months. Thus, if the value is high it indicates prediabetics or diabetes.

Is fasting required for hba1c test?

The HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c) is a very effective test for diabetes diagonsis. There is no need to fast before the test. You can eat and drink before getting tested.

What is hba1c in blood test?

HbA1c is known as glycosylated hemoglobin test.  This blood test is used to find out the average blood sugar levels for 3 months. It does by calculating the amount of glucose that binds to hemoglobin.

How much does hba1c test cost?

The HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c) is a blood test carried out for diabetes diagonsis. It can cost from INR 300 to INR 800. Price varies from city to city and as per patient preference like sample collection from home.

What is the normal hba1c level?

HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c), blood test measures the average blood sugar levles. The normal levels for this test is a value betwee 4% and 5.6%. Values in the range of 5. 7% and 6.4% signfy prediabetic condition, while value above 6.5% signifies diabetes.

What is full form of hba1c?

Last updated on August 13th, 2021

The term HbA1c refers to glycated haemoglobin. It develops when haemoglobin, a protein within red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body, joins with glucose in the blood, becoming ‘glycated’.

What is the cost of Hemoglobin A1c level test?

Well, the cost of this test is a bit higher than the normal blood sugar test but it gives you the most accurate results over the past three months. In India, the average cost of HbA1C or glycosylate hemoglobin test is around Rs 500.

Can you check the gestational diabetes with HbA1c ?

No. Gestational diabetes cannot be diagnosed with an HbA1c blood test. An oral glucose tolerance test is used instead to check gestational diabetes.

Can HbA1c blood test be done at home?

A home test is ideally good for those who are known diabetic. You can get the FDA approved test kit to monitor your glucose management over the time. You just have to follow the HbA1c test procedure mentioned in the kit to get the test results.

How is glycosylated hemoglobin tested?

There is no need of fasting before the test unlike the blood glucose test. Glycosylated Hb test is a simple blood test. Blood samples can be taken by the doctor or pathologist.

A1c Chart, Test, Levels, & Normal Range

The individuals having the stable blood glucose level should have a Hemoglobin A1c test done in every six months. However, people with diabetes or those who are trying to have a control on their blood sugar level should get this test done every three months.

Reference:

  1. https://www.medicinenet.com/hemoglobin_a1c_test/article.htm

  2. https://www.emedicinehealth.com/hemoglobin_a1c_hba1c/article_em.htm

  3. https://www.healthline.com/health/type-2-diabetes/ac1-test#TOC_TITLE_HDR_1

  • Non-diabetic: less than 5.6%
  • Pre-diabetes: 5.7-6.4%
  • Diabetes: less than 7%
  1. First trimester: less than 6%
  2. Second trimester: less than 6.5%
  3. Third trimester: less than 7%