what should a1c level be

The A1C test is a blood test that measures the average blood sugar levels over the past 2 to 3 months. A normal A1C level is below 5.7% for people without diabetes. For people with diabetes, the goal for most adults is an A1C of 7% or lower. However, the target A1C level may vary depending on the individuals diabetes history and general health. Higher A1C levels are linked to diabetes complications, so reaching and maintaining an individuals A1C goal is important. An A1C level of 5.7% to 6.4% indicates prediabetes, and a level of 6.5% or more indicates diabetes. Within the prediabetes range of 5.7% to 6.4%, the higher the A1C, the greater the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It is recommended that people with diabetes get the A1C test at least twice a year if they are meeting their treatment goals.