HbA1c test: how to read your result and when to worry

This article is for general awareness and is not medical advice or a substitute for evaluation by a qualified doctor. In an emergency in Saudi Arabia, call 997 immediately.

What does the test measure?

HbA1c measures the share of haemoglobin in your blood that has sugar attached to it. Because red blood cells live for about three months, the result reflects your average blood sugar over the past two to three months, not a single moment.

Common numbers

Below 5.7%: usually considered within the normal range.
5.7% to 6.4%: usually described as prediabetes, an important window for prevention.
6.5% or higher: may indicate diabetes; doctors usually confirm the diagnosis by repeating the test or with other tests.

These are general reference points. If you are being treated for diabetes, your doctor sets your personal target based on your age, condition and medicines.

Why the result can sometimes be misleading

Some conditions affect the accuracy of the test, such as anaemia, inherited blood disorders that are common in the region like sickle cell disease and thalassaemia, kidney disease, pregnancy and a recent blood transfusion. That is why doctors may read the result together with other tests.

Don't change your diabetes medicine or insulin doses yourself based on a single result. If you have symptoms such as extreme thirst with frequent urination, vomiting or confusion, go to the emergency department or call 997.

What to do after your result

Keep your previous results to see the trend over time. Read why keep a copy of your medical file.
Ask your doctor about your personal target and when to repeat the test.
Prepare your questions before the visit. Read how to prepare for your doctor's appointment.

Where does HealTrip fit in?

HealTrip is working to bring your test results together in one place and show how they change over time, so you can discuss them clearly with your doctor, while the medical decision stays with the specialist doctor.

Be among the first to join HealTrip

HealTrip is a Saudi health platform in pre-launch. Register your interest as a patient, doctor, or healthcare facility, and we'll contact you at launch.