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 and may be compared with a number value. 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 levels are greater than 8%, the ADA recommends that diabetes treatment be looked at and changed as needed.

Comparison of A1c and plasma glucose levels

A1c %	Average plasma glucose (mg/dL)	Average plasma glucose (mmol/L)
6%	135	7.5
7%	170	9.5
8%	205	11.5
9%	240	13.5
10%	275	15.5
11%	310	17.5
12%	345	19.5

The American Diabetes Association has the following recommendations for children and adolescents with diabetes:¹

A1c recommendations for children and teens

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