Understanding A1C Scores: What's a Healthy Range?

The hemoglobin A1C test, also known as the HbA1C test, provides a long-term indication of blood glucose level. What makes a "good" A1C score depends on whether or not you are diabetic.

A1C Testing

• The A1C test works by measuring what percentage of hemoglobin in a blood sample shows evidence of contact with blood sugar. Since a red blood cell remains in circulation for about 90 days, the A1C test indicates average blood sugar over the past three months.

Diabetes Maintenance Scores

• According to the American Diabetes Association, most people with diabetes should aim to keep their A1C score below 7.0. This score corresponds to an average blood glucose of 154 mg/dl over the past three months.

Diagnostic Scores

• The A1C test can also be used for diagnosing diabetes. Although A1C scores from 4.0 to 6.0 are considered "normal," a score above 5.7 indicates an increased risk for developing diabetes. A diagnosis of diabetes requires an A1C score of 6.5 or higher.