HbA1c Test

HbA1c is Glycated Haemoglobin that is formed when excess sugar in the blood binds to the haemoglobin protein, present inside red blood cells.

HbA1c Test

HbA1c quantifies the % of glycated haemoglobin molecules in the blood. This test is considered as a gold standard for determining chronic hyperglycaemia and gives approximate values of average blood glucose levels for preceding 8 to 12 weeks.

Normal HbA1C levels

The normal range of HbA1c levels is 4% to 5.6% in people without diabetes.

Purpose of the HbA1C test

It is used to diagnose Diabetes and prediabetes.
HbA1c plays a significant role in the Management of Diabetes:
- It helps in the long term assessment of glucose control in a patient on antidiabetic treatment.
- It assists in decisions regarding therapy.
- It predicts disease progression and risk of developing complications: Increased HbA1c levels increases the risk of complications (eye problems, nerve and kidney diseases).

It is recommended that HbA1c should be checked in persons with diabetes

At least twice a year, if sugar control is good.
Every 3 months if target levels are not achieved, or there is a change in treatment.

Procedure of Test

A blood sample (a few ml of blood) is taken from the arm for HbA1c assay.
It can be carried out at any time of the day.
It does not require fasting.

Result and Interpretation

HbA1c levels between 5.7% and 6.4% indicate the state of increased blood sugar (Prediabetes).

HbA1c levels of 6.5% or higher reflect Diabetes.

HbA1c and Sugar Levels Chart

Diagnosis	HbA1c	Estimated Average Glucose Levels (mg/dl)	Fasting Blood Glucose (mg /dl)
Normal	Below 5.7%	<117mg/dl	70-100
Prediabetes	Between 5.7% and 6.4 %	Between 117 to 137	101-125
Diabetes	6.5% or higher	139.8 or higher	126 or higher

Reference: American Diabetes Association .

The target of treatment intervention is to keep HbA1c levels below 7% (well-controlled Diabetes).

FAQ

What is the normal HbA1c level?

The normal range of HbA1c levels is 4% to 5.6%

What is the meaning of HbA1c?

HbA1c refers to glycated haemoglobin, which is formed when excess glucose in the blood is attached to the haemoglobin.

What happens if HbA1c is high?

High HbA1c implies there is a high risk of developing complications associated with Diabetes.

About the Author

Dr Aarti Nehra is an MBBS graduate and pursued Masters of Medical Science and Technology from IIT Kharagpur. She has worked as a consultant to provide services across the medical device and pharmaceutical industry. A cross-domain expert with experience in clinical practice, clinical marketing, competitive intelligence, market strategy and analysis, statistical analysis, and medical research.