NHS App test results explained
HbA1c test results explained (mmol/mol)
HbA1c shows your average blood sugar over the last two to three months. In the UK it is used to check for type 2 diabetes, to keep an eye on people at risk, and to see how well diabetes is being managed.
Also printed as: Glycated haemoglobin, Haemoglobin A1c.
What is on the report
Typical adult ranges. Each lab sets its own, so the range printed next to your result is the one that counts.
| Test | What it is | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| HbA1c | Your average blood sugar over the past two to three months. | 20–38 mmol/mol |
Good to know in United Kingdom
- UK results are given in mmol/mol. This has been the standard since 2009. Before that a percentage was used, so some reports or letters show both.
- UK laboratories use methods standardised to an international reference, so results from different labs can be compared.
- People with diabetes usually have HbA1c checked every three to six months, and at least once a year as part of their annual review.
- Your diabetes team may agree a personal target with you. Targets can be different for older people and for people at risk of type 2 diabetes.
Call 999 in an emergency. For urgent advice that is not an emergency, use NHS 111 online or call 111. For questions about your test results, contact your GP surgery.
Keep your reports in one place
Take a photo or screenshot of your results, or upload the PDF, and Vita explains each number in plain words, suggests what to ask your GP, and keeps it with your past results. Vita does not connect to the NHS App or to any UK health record system, and its hospital connections are for US hospitals, not UK ones.
Vita Health Coach on the App StoreAsk it in ChatGPT
Vita Health Coach also answers in ChatGPT. One tap opens ChatGPT with this question ready to send:
“What should I ask the doctor about my HbA1c result?”
Questions
Do I need to fast for an HbA1c test?
No. HbA1c reflects the last two to three months, so no preparation is needed.
Why is my HbA1c in mmol/mol and not a percentage?
The UK moved to mmol/mol in 2009. Diabetes UK has a converter if you are used to the older percentage figures.
What can make HbA1c less accurate?
Conditions that affect red blood cells, such as sickle cell disease, thalassaemia and some types of anaemia, can affect the result. Low iron may push it up. Ask your GP if another test would suit you better.
More for United Kingdom
Sources
General information, not medical advice. VitaMedas is not connected with any government health service. Vita Health Coach explains; it never diagnoses. In an emergency, call 999. Read the medical disclaimer.