Glycosylated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) Test

The Glycosylated Hemoglobin HbA1C test measures the amount of blood sugar (glucose) that gets attached to the haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is a protein present in the blood that carries oxygen from the lungs to the all parts of the body. The haemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) test measures the average amount of glucose that gets attached to the haemoglobin over three months. This test gives you an average of three months because red blood cells live for about three months or 120 days.

Why is an HbA1C test prescribed?

The HbA1C test helps diagnose diabetes or prediabetes in adults. It helps you identify if you are on the edge of developing diabetes.

If you already have diabetes mellitus, the HbA1C test results help monitor your blood sugar levels. The three-month average gives an update on the status of your condition. Based on the values of the test, your doctor will assess your progress.

Other Names of HbA1C Test

• Glycohemoglobin Test
• Glycosylated Haemoglobin Test        
• Glycated Haemoglobin Test
• Haemoglobin A1C Test

What does the HbA1C test measure?

The HbA1C test measures the average blood sugar levels in your body over three months. It measures the percentage of haemoglobin A1C  in your blood to which glucose gets attached.

The more the amount of glucose in your blood, the higher the chances of it getting attached to haemoglobin.

Who is the HbA1C test prescribed for?

The HbA1C test is advised for all age groups and genders. It is used to identify the following health conditions:

• Prediabetes: A condition where your blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes mellitus.
• Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A genetic disorder where your pancreas does not produce insulin leading to high blood sugar levels.
• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A chronic condition where your body does not produce enough insulin or is resistant to insulin.

The HbA1C test is suggested for people who are more prone to developing diabetes. These groups include those who are:

• Above 40 years of age.
• Have a family history of diabetes.
• Have prediabetes.
• Obese or overweight.
• Have had gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) or given birth to a baby who has weighed more than 4 kgs.
• Not much physically active (less than three times a week).

The glycosylated haemoglobin test is done by taking a blood sample. This test can be combined with your other regular tests or can be done separately.

Test Preparation

The glycosylated haemoglobin test requires you to give a sample of your blood. When performed, the technician will take the blood sample from your vein. The blood sample is taken by pricking the finger with a needle.

Before the HbA1C test

This test does not require any specific preparations from your end. You can take the test at any time during the day before or after meals. But if your doctor prescribes a series of other tests, along with the HbA1C test, then you may need to prepare accordingly.

During the HbA1C test

You do not need to prepare for anything during the HbA1C test. It is a simple blood test that takes about 5-10 minutes.

After the HbA1C test

There are no restrictions after taking this test. You can return to your usual activities after the HbA1C test.

Test inclusions: What parameters are included?

The HbA1C test report gives you a reading of the following:

• HbA1c (Glycosylated Hemoglobin)
• Average Blood Glucose

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Prediabetes

HbA1c test results are in the form of percentages. You can see the reference ranges to interpret your test results. Based on these reference ranges, you can understand if you are in the HbA1c test normal range or if you are in the prediabetes phase or have diabetes.

The normal values and reference ranges of the test may vary from lab to lab. Please refer to the ranges mentioned in the report and consult a doctor to understand the interpretation of lab reports.

Your doctor will not rely on the HbA1c test results alone to diagnose diabetes. You may have to undergo a series of other tests and examinations to confirm your diabetes situation. To understand what your test results mean, consult your doctor and get all your queries solved. HbA1c target goals may vary for different patients undergoing treatment for type 2 diabetes. Discuss this with your doctor.