An HbA1c of 6% or less is normal. If you have diabetes, you should try to keep your HbA1c level at or below 7%. However, you and your health care provider must decide what is a normal HbA1c level for you.

Normal ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

Abnormal results mean that your blood glucose levels have been above normal over a period of weeks to months. If your HbA1c is above 7%, it means that your diabetes control may not be as good as it should be.

High values mean you are at greater risk of diabetes complications. If you can bring your level down, you decrease your chances of long-term complications.

Ask your doctor how often you should have your HbA1c tested. Usually, doctors recommend testing every 3 or 6 months.