Take charge of your health with the Diabetes (HbA1c) Blood Test, which measures your average blood glucose levels over the past 12 weeks. This straightforward test is useful for identifying pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes, especially for individuals at increased risk due to family history, lifestyle factors, or symptoms such as tiredness and excessive thirst.
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Results available within 7–10 working days
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Flexible testing options
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Tailored doctor’s report
- Free Delivery
What does the test include?
Diabetes
HbA1c (Haemoglobin A1c)
Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), also called glycated haemoglobin, provides a longer-term overview of your blood sugar levels than a standard blood glucose test. Glucose binds to the haemoglobin in red blood cells, which typically live for around 12 to 16 weeks. This allows the test to reflect your average blood glucose level over approximately three months.
A high HbA1c reading suggests the presence of diabetes or a heightened risk of developing it. Diabetes can seriously affect both lifespan and quality of life. If left uncontrolled, it can lead to complications such as heart disease, kidney issues, eye problems, vascular conditions, and can also affect mental health. Additionally, men with diabetes are up to three times more likely to experience erectile dysfunction. Maintaining a normal HbA1c level can help minimise the risk of these complications.
Test Limitations
Although the HbA1c test is a valuable measure of long-term glucose control, it does not reflect day-to-day variations in blood sugar levels. Certain health conditions that affect red blood cells — including thalassaemia, chronic liver disease, and severe iron deficiency — may impact the accuracy of your results. If your results fall outside the expected range, we will advise you on the appropriate next steps. Please note, a diagnosis of diabetes cannot be made solely from your HbA1c result.
