Test guide
Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)
A long-term measure of average blood glucose over roughly the preceding two to three months, used to diagnose and monitor diabetes.
What it is for
Supports diagnosis of diabetes in appropriate populations, monitors long-term glycaemic control, and guides therapy-intensification decisions. Because it reflects an integrated average, it is less affected by day-to-day variation than fasting glucose.
Limitations
Conditions affecting red-cell turnover — haemoglobinopathies, recent transfusion, anaemia, pregnancy, dialysis — can invalidate the result. Assay standardisation varies between countries and laboratories; results should be interpreted against the reporting laboratory’s reference system. Diagnosis should never rest on a single result without clinical confirmation.
Before you test
No fasting is required. Report any known haemoglobin disorder, recent transfusion, anaemia, or pregnancy, as these can affect the result.
Health information only. This guide does not diagnose or replace advice from a healthcare professional.
Also known as
- HbA1c
- A1c
- glycohemoglobin
Reviewed products
Curated product links for this test are still under editorial review. Meanwhile, browse the product directory or request a supplier match below.