HbA1c Converter and Diabetes Target Tool
The Hb A1c is blood test that provides a method of monitoring a person with diabetes blood sugar levels over the previous 3 months.
The Hb A1c can be used to work out the estimated average glucose (eAG) level using a complex mathematical model.
Enter your Hb A1c to understand what you average blood sugar value has been over the previous 3 months.
How to use the tool:
Enter your Hb A1c value from your last blood test to understand what you average blood sugar value has been over the previous 3 months.
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Risk of Developing Complications
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Choose either percentage or mmol/mol depending on what is written on your blood laboratory result.
%
Range 5 - 16%
Low risk
HbA1c
Estimated Average Glucose (eAG)
mg/dL
mmol/L
Your HbA1c is in the Normal Range
Your blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months have been within the normal, healthy range. This result suggests a low risk of diabetes.
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This tool provides general information only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your results and personal targets.
What is Hb A1c test?
The HbA1c test, or the glycated haemoglobin A1c test, is a blood test that can be taken at any time as you don’t need to fast before taking the test. It indicates what your average blood glucose levels are over the past 3 months, by measuring the percentage of blood glucose that has attached to haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is the oxygen carrying protein found in red blood cells.
It is normal for all people to have some glucose attached to haemoglobin. In people with diabetes, the higher the blood glucose levels are, the more glucose you have attached to haemoglobin. A HbA1c level of 6.5% or higher, on two separate tests, can indicate that you have diabetes. Whereas a HbA1c level between 5.7 and 6.4% can indicate prediabetes. Levels below 5.7% are considered normal. In other words, higher A1c percentages indicate an increased risk of diabetes.
The HbA1c test should not be used alone to diagnose diabetes. It should be used in combination with other blood glucose tests.
What does a high Hb A1c reading mean?
There is a strong relationship between high Hb A1c readings and the risk of developing diabetes-related complications.
Why is Hb A1c tested every 3 months?
You Hb A1c is tested every 3 months because our bodies make new red blood cells 3 months.
Your Hb A1c reading from last week won’t be the same as your Hb A1c reading from last year.
estimated Average Glucose
The estimated Average Glucose (eAG) is a way to show patients what their Hb A1c results (shown as a percentage) are using the same units (mg/L or mmol/L) that they're more familiar with when monitoring their blood glucose levels.
Hb A1c and corresponding estimated average glucose level table
| Hb A1c % | Hb A1c mmol/mol | eAG mg/dl | eAG mmol/l |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5% | 31 | 97 | 5.4 |
| 6% | 42 | 126 | 7.0 |
| 7% | 53 | 154 | 8.6 |
| 8% | 64 | 183 | 10.2 |
| 9% | 75 | 212 | 11.8 |
| 10% | 86 | 240 | 13.3 |
| 11% | 97 | 269 | 14.9 |
| 12% | 108 | 289 | 16.5 |
What is a normal Hb A1c reading?
A normal haemoglobin (Hb) A1c level is below 5.7%. Therefore, a healthy Hb A1c value is below 5.7%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HbA1c test?
The HbA1c test measures the percentage of haemoglobin that has glucose attached, providing an estimate of average blood glucose levels over the previous three months. It does not require fasting and is used to diagnose and monitor diabetes.
What is considered a normal HbA1c level?
A normal HbA1c is generally below 5.7%. Levels between 5.7% and 6.4% indicate prediabetes, while 6.5% or higher on two separate tests can indicate diabetes.
What HbA1c target should I aim for if I have diabetes?
Many adults aim for an HbA1c below 7% (53 mmol/mol). Targets are personalised: younger adults or those early in diabetes may aim lower, while older adults or those with health conditions may have a higher individualised target.
What does a high HbA1c result mean?
A high HbA1c indicates a higher average blood glucose level and a greater risk of diabetes-related complications, including eye, kidney, nerve, and cardiovascular disease.
Why is the HbA1c test done every three months?
Red blood cells live for around 8–12 weeks. Testing every three months reflects recent glucose control and helps assess the effect of lifestyle changes or medication adjustments.
How can I lower my HbA1c?
Effective ways to lower HbA1c include improving diet, reducing carbohydrate load, increasing physical activity, achieving weight loss where appropriate, taking medications as prescribed, and monitoring blood glucose regularly.
How fast can HbA1c improve?
HbA1c begins to improve as soon as glucose levels improve, but measurable changes usually appear within three months. Faster reductions may occur with significant lifestyle or medication changes.
Can HbA1c be falsely high or falsely low?
Yes. Conditions that affect red blood cell turnover—such as anaemia, iron deficiency, pregnancy, kidney disease, or haemoglobin variants—can make HbA1c readings inaccurate. Your clinician may use alternative tests if needed.
Is HbA1c accurate for everyone?
HbA1c is reliable for most people, but may be inaccurate in those with haemoglobin disorders, recent blood loss, pregnancy, or chronic kidney disease. Alternative markers such as fructosamine or CGM data may be used.
What is estimated Average Glucose (eAG)?
eAG converts HbA1c into familiar glucose units. Approximate pairs include: 5% ≈ 5.4 mmol/L, 6% ≈ 7.0 mmol/L, 7% ≈ 8.6 mmol/L, 8% ≈ 10.2 mmol/L, 9% ≈ 11.8 mmol/L, and 10% ≈ 13.3 mmol/L.
Does food affect the HbA1c test?
No. Unlike glucose tests, you do not need to fast for HbA1c. Eating or drinking before the test does not affect the result.
What is the difference between HbA1c and daily blood glucose readings?
Daily glucose readings show moment-to-moment values, while HbA1c reflects long-term average control. Both are important for understanding overall diabetes management.
