What is the commonly targeted HbA1c for most nonpregnant adults with diabetes?

• A. Less than 7% (53 mmol/mol)
• B. Less than 6%
• C. Less than 7.5%
• D. Less than 8%

Answer: (A)

HbA1c targets reflect long-term glycemic control and the balance between reducing complications and avoiding hypoglycemia. For most nonpregnant adults with diabetes, the standard goal is to keep HbA1c below 7%, which corresponds to about 53 mmol/mol. This level has been shown to reduce microvascular complications like eye, kidney, and nerve damage without imposing excessive hypoglycemia risk for the average patient. Targets are then individualized: some people may strive for tighter control if they are younger or early in the disease and can safely avoid lows, while others with longer disease duration, older age, or higher hypoglycemia risk may have a higher target, such as 7–8%. Pregnancy requires different, tighter targets, so they’re not applicable to the general nonpregnant population.