HbA1c Converter
Interprets HbA1c in mmol/mol (IFCC). Classifies diabetes control and identifies diagnostic thresholds.
Score interpretation
HbA1c < 42 mmol/mol (< 6.0%): Normal glycaemia. Not diabetic or pre-diabetic.
→ Routine check as clinically indicated. Lifestyle advice if risk factors present.
HbA1c 42–47 mmol/mol (6.0–6.4%): Pre-diabetes / high risk of developing T2DM.
→ Intensive lifestyle intervention: weight loss ≥5%, 150 min exercise/week. Annual HbA1c monitoring. Consider metformin if high risk.
HbA1c 48–57 mmol/mol (6.5–7.4%): Diagnostic threshold for T2DM (if ≥48 on two occasions or with symptoms). NICE target for most patients on treatment: ≤48.
→ Newly diagnosed: confirm with repeat test unless symptomatic. On treatment: NICE target ≤48 for most. Consider intensification if above target.
HbA1c 58–74 mmol/mol (7.5–8.9%): Above NICE target. Risk of microvascular complications.
→ Intensify hypoglycaemic therapy. Address adherence. NICE 2023: if HbA1c >58 mmol/mol, consider GLP-1 receptor agonist or SGLT2 inhibitor.
HbA1c ≥75 mmol/mol (≥9%): Very poor glycaemic control. High risk of acute and chronic complications.
→ Urgent medication review. Consider insulin if not already on it. Refer to diabetes specialist nurse or clinic. Screen for DKA triggers.
Interpretation bands for the HbA1c. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- NICE NG28. Type 2 diabetes in adults: management. 2022.
- WHO. Use of Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) in the Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus. 2011.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Insulin (IV Infusion — ICU Glucose Control) · Insulin — ICU Glucose Management
- Dextrose 50% (Glucose 50%) · Glucose Supplement
- Dextrose 10% IV · IV glucose solution (hypoglycaemia treatment)
- Glucose · Carbohydrate / hypoglycaemia treatment
- Potassium chloride with glucose · IV fluid (potassium + dextrose)
- Potassium chloride with glucose and sodium chloride · IV fluid (mixed)
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) · JBDS 2013 / Joint British Diabetes Societies; NICE NG17
- Adult Hypoglycaemia (Treated Diabetes) · JBDS-IP (2023): Hospital Management of Hypoglycaemia
- Adrenal Crisis · Society for Endocrinology Emergency Guidance (2024)
- Type 2 Diabetes Management · NICE NG28 2022
- Hyperthyroidism Management · BTA / ETA 2018
- Adrenal Insufficiency · Society of Endocrinology / ESE 2016
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.