Normal Range for A1c Test Results

An A1c test measures the average glucose (sugar) in the blood over the previous two to three months. Readings should be similar to that of a non-diabetic, which is 4 to 6 percent. In diabetics, 7 percent is good. An A1c level of 6.5 on two tests indicates a predisposition for diabetes.

Identification

• A1c results are read as percentages. Home monitors are read as units (mg/dL). In translation, an A1C of 5 percent is equivalent to 97 mg/dL, 6 percent is 126 mg/dL, and 7 percent is 154 mg/dL.

Effects

• Kidney and liver disease, high cholesterol, anemia and use of vitamins can influence A1c results.

Significance

• Maintaining a normal blood sugar level decreases risk for diseases associated with uncontrolled diabetes.

Potential

• People with uncontrolled diabetes are at risk for developing heart disease, hypertension, blindness, kidney disease, nerve damage and more frequent infections.

Prevention/Solution

• Getting A1c tests three times a year, along with self-testing and adjusting insulin accordingly is crucial to controlling diabetes.