What is the target HbA1c level for most adults with diabetes?

The target HbA1c level for most adults with diabetes is set at 7.0% or lower. This target is based on clinical evidence indicating that maintaining HbA1c below this threshold helps to reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications, such as microvascular (like retinopathy and nephropathy) and macrovascular (like cardiovascular disease) issues. Striving for this level balances the benefits of glycemic control with the potential risks of hypoglycemia, particularly in certain populations, such as older adults or those with a limited life expectancy.

Further, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and other health organizations recommend that individual treatment goals may vary based on factors such as age, duration of diabetes, presence of comorbid conditions, and patient preferences. However, for an overarching guideline, an HbA1c target of 7.0% is widely endorsed to optimize health outcomes for most adults with diabetes.