Heart system

Hemoglobin A1c

HbA1c

A 3-month average of your blood sugar.

What is it

Hemoglobin A1c — in plain English.

Hemoglobin A1c reflects the percentage of hemoglobin glycated by glucose — a stable marker that reflects average blood sugar over roughly 8–12 weeks.

Why it's measured

What HbA1c can reveal.

HbA1c is a foundational marker for screening and monitoring diabetes and has been associated with cardiometabolic risk in published research.

Reference range

Where most laboratories draw the standard line.

Standard laboratory reference

< 5.7 %

Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.

What results may indicate

Higher vs. lower HbA1c — at a high level.

Elevated

Values in the prediabetes (5.7–6.4%) or diabetes (≥6.5%) range have been associated with elevated cardiometabolic risk in research literature.

Lower

Is generally considered favorable.

These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.

When it's measured

When HbA1c is typically run.

Part of routine diabetes screening and metabolic evaluation.

Related markers

Often measured alongside HbA1c.

Measured in

HbA1c is one of 160 biomarkers in the Apex Panel.

A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.

Explore the Apex Panel
160 biomarkers13 body systemsPhysician-reviewed
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This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.