Glycohemoglobin (HbA1c, A1c)

GHb (Glycohemoglobin) Test, HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c), Hemoglobin A1c

Results

Glycohemoglobin is a blood test that checks the amount of sugar (glucose) bound to hemoglobin. The result is shown as a percentage. The result of your A1c test can also be used to estimate your average blood sugar level. This is called your estimated average glucose, or eAG. Your A1c level may be reported without a total glycohemoglobin value. Your doctor will have your test results in 1 to 2 days.

Normal

Normal values vary from lab to lab, depending on the test method used.

Glycohemoglobin (GHb)

Glycohemoglobin A1c:	4.5%–5.7%
Total glycohemoglobin:	5.3%–7.5%

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that people with diabetes have an A1c level less than 7%. If your A1c level is higher than 7%, you may need changes in your diabetes treatment. Talk to your doctor about your diabetes treatment plan and goals.¹

A1c and estimated average glucose (eAG) ²

A1c %	Estimated average plasma glucose (mg/dL)	Estimated average plasma glucose (mmol/L)
6%	126	7.0
7%	154	8.6
8%	183	10.2
9%	212	11.8
10%	240	13.4
11%	269	14.9
12%	298	16.5

The American Diabetes Association has the following recommendations for children and adolescents with diabetes:³

A1c recommendations for children and teens

Age	A1c %
Children younger than 6 years old	7.5–8.5%
Children ages 6–12 years old	Less than 8%
Teens ages 13–19 years old	Less than 7.5%

High values

A glycohemoglobin A1c level above 8% means that your diabetes has been poorly controlled over the last 2 to 3 months.

Some medical conditions can increase A1c levels, but the results may still be within a normal range. These conditions include Cushing's syndrome, pheochromocytoma, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Corticosteroid treatment increases the A1c level.

A1c levels may be higher in children and adolescents with diabetes.

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Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS	Last Updated: May 29, 2008
Medical Review:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine David C.W. Lau, MD, PhD, FRCPC - Endocrinology & Metabolism
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