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HbA1c Calculator

Convert between HbA1c and estimated average glucose (eAG). HbA1c reflects 2-3 month average blood sugar: normal is below 5.7%, prediabetes 5.7-6.4%, diabetes ≥6.5% (ADA criteria).

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⚠️For informational purposes only — not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before acting on results.

HbA1c reflects 2-3 month average blood sugar. ADA criteria: normal <5.7%, prediabetes 5.7-6.4%, diabetes ≥6.5%. The ADAG formula converts HbA1c to estimated average glucose (eAG): eAG = 28.7 × HbA1c − 46.7 (mg/dL).

<5.7%
Normal
5.7-6.4%
Prediabetes
≥6.5%
Diabetes
<7%
Diabetic target

Sources: ADA, ADAG Study, WHO, CDC.

Key Takeaways

  • • HbA1c <5.7% indicates normal glucose metabolism
  • • Prediabetes (5.7-6.4%) increases diabetes risk; lifestyle changes can prevent progression
  • • eAG helps translate lab results into daily glucose terms (mg/dL or mmol/L)
  • • Target HbA1c <7% for most adults with diabetes per ADA

Did You Know?

🔢 A 1% drop in HbA1c reduces microvascular risk by ~37%
📊 eAG 154 mg/dL = HbA1c 7% (ADA target reference)
💡 HbA1c can be affected by anemia and hemoglobin variants
🌍 ~96 million US adults have prediabetes (CDC)
📈 Red blood cell lifespan (~120 days) determines HbA1c window
🎯 CGM time-in-range correlates with HbA1c for trend assessment

How Does HbA1c Work?

Glycation

Glucose attaches to hemoglobin in red blood cells. Higher average glucose = more glycation = higher HbA1c.

ADAG Formula

eAG (mg/dL) = 28.7 × HbA1c − 46.7. Reverse: HbA1c = (eAG + 46.7) / 28.7.

Clinical Use

Diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment targets. Check every 3-6 months in diabetes.

Expert Tips

Recheck HbA1c every 3 months until target reached
Discuss hemoglobin variants if results seem inconsistent
Use eAG to explain lab results in familiar glucose units
Individualize targets (e.g., <8% for elderly, limited life expectancy)

HbA1c Categories

RangeCategoryeAG (mg/dL)
<5.7%Normal<117
5.7-6.4%Prediabetes117-140
≥6.5%Diabetes≥140
7% (target)Controlled154

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HbA1c?

HbA1c (hemoglobin A1c) measures the percentage of hemoglobin with glucose attached. It reflects your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months. Normal is below 5.7%, prediabetes 5.7-6.4%, diabetes ≥6.5% per ADA criteria.

How is eAG calculated from HbA1c?

The ADAG formula: eAG (mg/dL) = 28.7 × HbA1c − 46.7. For mmol/L: eAG = 1.59 × HbA1c − 2.59. Example: HbA1c 7% → eAG ≈ 154 mg/dL (8.6 mmol/L).

What is a normal HbA1c range?

Normal: <5.7%. Prediabetes: 5.7-6.4%. Diabetes: ≥6.5%. For diabetics, ADA recommends <7% for most adults, with individualized targets.

How often should HbA1c be checked?

Annually for prediabetics. Every 3 months for diabetics until target reached, then every 6 months. More frequent if treatment changes or goals not met.

Can HbA1c be falsely low or high?

Yes. Anemia, hemoglobin variants, recent blood loss, or kidney disease can affect results. Discuss with your provider if results seem inconsistent with fingerstick readings.

What is the relationship between HbA1c and average glucose?

HbA1c correlates with mean glucose. A 1% change in HbA1c ≈ 29 mg/dL change in average glucose. eAG helps translate lab results into daily glucose terms.

Key Statistics

120
Days RBC lifespan
37%
Microvascular risk reduction per 1% A1c drop
154
eAG at 7% (mg/dL)
96M
US prediabetic adults

Official Data Sources

⚠️ Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

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