Normal Values:

An HbA1c of 6% or less is normal.

Normal ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

What abnormal results mean:

Abnormal results mean that your blood glucose levels have not been well controlled over a period of weeks to months. If your HbA1c is above 7%, it means that your diabetes control may not be as good as it should be.

High values mean you are at greater risk of diabetes complications. If you can bring your level down, you decrease your chances of long-term complications.

In the past few years, doctors and diabetes experts have said you should try to keep your HbA1c level below 7%. However, researchers are finding that keeping the HbA1c below 7% may not be as helpful as they used to think.

Ask your doctor how often you should have your Hb A1c tested. Usually, doctors recommend testing every 3 or 6 months.