top of page

WHAT IS HBA1C?

​

The HbA1c value should be familiar to all diabetics. But most people don't know what it means exactly.

Hb = hemoglobin (dye in red blood cells)

A1c = protein chain that can bind glucose

  • HbA1c = glycated hemoglobin / hemoglobin bound to glucose


The value therefore provides information about the percentage of hemoglobin that has bound to or with glucose. The higher the value, the more sugar is available in the blood for binding, the higher the average long-term sugar.

Hemoglobin is renewed every 8-12 weeks. That is why the term "3-monthly sugar" is often used in this context.


A value of less than 7.0% is usually given as the target. The WHO now even recommends a target value of 6.5%.

​

HbA1c levels

  • Normal: < 42 mmol/mol or < 6.0%

  • Prediabetes: 42-47 mmol/mol or 6.0 – 6.4%

  • Diabetes: > 48 mmol/mol or > 6.4%


Conversion table here!

​

credentials


bottom of page