What Is a Good A1c Number?

Laboratory testing is important to practitioners in determining the course of treatment for diabetes patients. Reported as a percentage of glucose in the blood, hemoglobin A1c numbers between 4.5 and 7 are generally considered acceptable.

Description

• The hemoglobin A1c test is a clinical laboratory blood test used to help diagnose diabetes. It is also used to monitor blood glucose levels in patients at risk. It is the best test used to determine if diabetes is under control.

Interpretation

• The A1c test is designed to detect sugar levels in the blood during the previous three-month period. Numbers can range from about 4 to higher than 25, with higher numbers indicating increased risk of diabetes complications.

Frequency

• Diabetic patients with normal test results may have the A1c test at least twice a year. Patients with high abnormal test results should have their tests repeated every three months, at least until normal test results are achieved.

Comparison

• While the finger-stick glucose test gives an immediate measure of blood glucose, the A1c test requires laboratory interpretation and gives a more comprehensive picture of patient health.

Significance

• The A1c test is an important diagnostic tool for people with diabetes. Patients with high A1c levels may require medication adjustments and enrollment in lifestyle and dietary-modification programs.