A normal A1C is below 5.7%. An A1C of 5.7% to 6.4% indicates prediabetes, and 6.5% or higher on two tests indicates diabetes. For many adults who already have diabetes, a common treatment goal is below 7%, though your clinician may set a different target for you.
A1C chart
| A1C result | What it means |
|---|---|
| Below 5.7% | Normal |
| 5.7% – 6.4% | Prediabetes |
| 6.5% or higher | Diabetes (confirmed with a repeat test unless symptoms are clear) |
A1C to average blood sugar
A1C can be converted to an estimated average glucose (eAG), the average blood sugar over roughly the past two to three months.
| A1C | Estimated average glucose (mg/dL) |
|---|---|
| 5% | 97 |
| 6% | 126 |
| 7% | 154 |
| 8% | 183 |
| 9% | 212 |
| 10% | 240 |
| 11% | 269 |
| 12% | 298 |
What is an A1C test?
The hemoglobin A1C test measures how much sugar is attached to your red blood cells. Because red blood cells live about three months, the result reflects your average blood sugar over that time, not just today. You do not need to fast for it.
Does the normal A1C range change with age?
The diagnostic cutoffs are the same for all adults. What can change with age and health is the treatment target. For some older adults or people with frequent low blood sugar, a less strict goal such as below 8% may be safer. Your clinician will set a target that fits you.
How often should A1C be checked?
Adults with diabetes who are meeting their goals usually test at least twice a year; those whose treatment recently changed or who are not at goal often test every three months. Adults with prediabetes are generally retested yearly. Screening is recommended for many adults starting at age 35, and earlier for those with risk factors such as excess weight or a family history.
What can affect an A1C result?
Anemia, recent blood loss or transfusion, kidney disease, pregnancy and some hemoglobin variants can make A1C less accurate. If your A1C does not match your home glucose readings, tell your clinician.
What if my A1C is in the prediabetes range?
Prediabetes can often be reversed. Losing 5% to 7% of body weight and getting about 150 minutes of moderate activity per week lower the risk of type 2 diabetes significantly. Read medical weight loss and reversing prediabetes.
How Voss Family Clinic helps
Our Sugar Land team checks A1C as part of diabetes screening and ongoing care, reviews your results with you, and adjusts your plan at follow-up visits. Learn about our chronic disease management and type 2 diabetes care.
Frequently asked questions
Is an A1C of 6.0 bad?
An A1C of 6.0% is in the prediabetes range. It is a warning sign, not a diagnosis of diabetes, and lifestyle changes can bring it down.
Can I lower my A1C in three months?
Yes. Because A1C reflects about three months, changes in diet, activity, weight and medication typically show up at your next test.
Due for a check? Request an appointment for diabetes screening in Sugar Land.
Medical Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual health concerns. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency medical care.
Sources
- American Diabetes Association. Standards of Care in Diabetes (current edition): Diagnosis and classification; Glycemic goals
- Nathan DM et al. Translating the A1C assay into estimated average glucose values. Diabetes Care. 2008.
- CDC: All about your A1C