

If your A1C level is above your target, your doctor may recommend an adjustment in your diabetes treatment plan. The target of less than 7% is associated with a lower risk of diabetes-related complications. Lower or higher targets may be appropriate for some people. 6.5% or higher on two separate tests indicates diabetes.įor most adults living with diabetes, an A1C level of less than 7% is a common treatment target.5.7% to 6.4% is diagnosed as prediabetes.Results for a diagnosis are interpreted as follows: A higher A1C percentage corresponds to higher average blood sugar levels. ResultsĪ1C test results are reported as a percentage. This in-office test is only used for monitoring your treatment plan, not for diagnosis or screening. If the blood is taken from a vein, the blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis.īlood from a finger prick may be analyzed in your doctor's office for same-day results. What you can expectĭuring the A1C test, a member of your health care team takes a blood sample by inserting a needle into a vein in your arm or pricking your finger tip with a small, pointed lancet. You don't need to fast for the A1C test, so you can eat and drink normally before the test. You may need more-frequent A1C tests if your doctor changes your diabetes treatment plan or you begin taking a new diabetes medication.

