Understanding A1c Levels: What's a Normal Range?

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.