HbA1c test: your 3-month sugar report card
One test that shows your average sugar — no fasting needed.
A normal sugar test shows your blood sugar at one moment, which can change with your last meal. HbA1c (glycated haemoglobin) shows your average blood sugar over roughly the last 2–3 months, which makes it one of the most useful tests for finding and tracking diabetes.
What do the numbers mean?
- Below 5.7% — generally considered normal.
- 5.7% to 6.4% — suggests prediabetes. This is a great time to act with diet, exercise and weight control.
- 6.5% or above — in the range doctors use to diagnose diabetes, usually confirmed with a repeat test.
If you already have diabetes, your doctor will set a personal HbA1c target, often around 7%.
Who should get an HbA1c test?
- Adults over 35, especially with a family history of diabetes
- Anyone who is overweight or has high blood pressure or cholesterol
- Women who had diabetes during pregnancy
- People with diabetes — usually every 3 to 6 months
Do I need to fast?
No. HbA1c does not need fasting and can be done at any time of day. It is often done together with fasting sugar, lipid profile and kidney tests, as in our Diabetes Care package.
Things that can affect HbA1c
Anaemia, recent blood loss or transfusion, pregnancy, kidney disease and some haemoglobin variants can make HbA1c less reliable. Your doctor may use other tests in these situations.
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal HbA1c level?
Below 5.7% is generally considered normal. 5.7–6.4% suggests prediabetes, and 6.5% or above is in the diabetes range.
Does the HbA1c test need fasting?
No, HbA1c can be done at any time without fasting.
How often should HbA1c be checked?
For people with diabetes, usually every 3–6 months. For screening, once a year if you are at risk, or as your doctor advises.
General information only, not a substitute for advice from your doctor. In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital.