Skip to content

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with mass concentration measurement by immunoassay

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the average level of blood sugar (glucose) over the past 2–3 months, reflecting how well your diabetes is controlled.

Quick summary

["HbA1c helps track long-term blood sugar management and assess diabetes risk."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109913-4
Short code
HCV RNA Msmt Mar
Synonyms
HCV RNA Msmt Mar
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86803
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why HbA1c Matters

Unlike daily blood sugar checks, HbA1c gives a broader picture of your glucose control over time. It’s a key tool for doctors to adjust treatments and prevent complications like nerve damage or kidney disease.

How It’s Done

A small blood sample is taken from your arm, usually during a routine visit. The test measures the percentage of hemoglobin molecules that have attached to glucose, indicating average blood sugar levels.

What Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a percentage (e.g., 5.7%–6.4% is considered prediabetes; 6.5% or higher suggests diabetes). While ranges vary by lab, higher values may signal poor control and require lifestyle or medical adjustments.

Common Reasons for Testing

Doctors order HbA1c to diagnose diabetes, monitor treatment progress, or screen for prediabetes. It’s especially useful for people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, pregnant women, or those with risk factors like obesity or a family history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HbA1c

Frequently asked questions

What does an HbA1c result of 6.2% mean?
A result of 6.2% falls within the prediabetes range (typically 5.7%–6.4%). This suggests your blood sugar levels are consistently higher than normal but not yet at diabetes levels. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, diet, or medication to help manage it.
How often should I get an HbA1c test?
For people with diabetes, HbA1c tests are usually done every 3–6 months to track progress. If you’re prediabetic or at high risk, your doctor may recommend testing annually or more frequently, depending on your health status.
Can HbA1c be affected by other health conditions?
Yes, certain conditions like anemia, kidney disease, or certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) can sometimes affect HbA1c results. If you suspect an issue, discuss your results with your healthcare provider—they may order additional tests to clarify.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy