Home Visit
Upload
HBA1c test
Also known as: HbA1c- Glycated Haemoglobin, EDTA Blood
No special precautions
Sample Type
Blood
Recommended for
Male, Female
Report
Within 24 Hours
Blood test at Home
NABL & CAP Accredited Labs
Accurate & Quality Test Reports
Trusted by Leading Doctors & Hospitals
HbA1c- Glycated Haemoglobin, EDTA Blood Details in Brief
| Also Known As | A1C Test, Glycated Hemoglobin Test, HbA1C, Hgba1c, Hgb a1c |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Measures the average blood sugar (glucose) levels from the past 2 to 3 months |
| Preparation | No Specific Preparation required |
| Fasting | Does not require fasting |
| Reporting Time | < 24 Hours |
| Cost | 640 |
HbA1c Test Overview
The HbA1c test is a crucial blood test that provides valuable insights into your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. It is an essential tool for diagnosing and managing diabetes, a chronic condition that affects millions worldwide. Understanding the HbA1c test meaning, normal range, and importance can empower you to take control of your health and make informed decisions.
What is HbA1c?
The HbA1c test full form is glycated haemoglobin, which is a form of haemoglobin that is chemically linked with glucose. Haemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein found in red blood cells. When your blood sugar levels are high, more glucose attaches to the haemoglobin, forming HbA1c. The percentage of HbA1c in your blood reflects your average blood glucose levels over the lifespan of your red blood cells, which is about three months.
What is an HbA1c Test?
The HbA1c blood test measures the proportion of glycated haemoglobin in your blood and also calculates the Estimated Average Glucose (eAG). Together, these provide a reliable picture of your blood sugar control over the past 8–12 weeks.
Unlike daily blood glucose tests that capture a momentary snapshot, the HbA1c test offers a comprehensive picture of your long-term blood sugar control. This test is used for both diagnosing diabetes and monitoring the effectiveness of diabetes management in people already diagnosed with the condition.
What are the Parameters tested under HbA1c Test?
The HbA1c test, or HbA1c blood test, measures the percentage of haemoglobin proteins in red blood cells that have glucose attached to them. Here's what the test evaluates:
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c): This test parameter reflects your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. Normal range is below 5.7%, prediabetes is 5.7% to 6.4%, and diabetes is 6.5% or above.
Reasons for Undergoing the HbA1c Test
There are several key reasons why your doctor may recommend an HbA1c test:
- To diagnose type 1 or type 2 diabetes
- To monitor long-term blood sugar control in people with diabetes
- To detect prediabetes, a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetic range
- To screen high-risk individuals, such as those with a family history of diabetes or obesity, for the development of diabetes
- To evaluate the effectiveness of diabetes medications or lifestyle changes in managing blood sugar levels
Eligibility for HbA1c Test
Who Should Get an HbA1c Test?
The following individuals should consider getting an HbA1c test:
- Adults aged 45 and older, especially if overweight or with risk factors like high blood pressure or a family history of diabetes
- People experiencing symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained weight loss
- Individuals previously diagnosed with diabetes to regularly monitor their condition and guide treatment decisions
- Those with prediabetes to track progression or improvement in blood sugar control
Why is the HbA1c Test Done?
The HbA1c test serves several important purposes:
- To screen for and diagnose diabetes
- To monitor diabetes management, assess the risk of complications, and guide treatment adjustments
- To identify individuals at risk of developing diabetes (prediabetes) and implement preventive measures
What are the advantages of HbA1c Test?
The benefits of the HbA1c test are numerous. It helps monitor long-term glucose control, making it a vital tool for diabetes management. The HbA1c test is also used for diagnosing and screening type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. Additionally, it aids in adjusting treatment plans and assessing the risk of diabetes-related complications. Regular HbA1c test results help ensure better diabetes control.
Understand the HbA1c Test
How to Book an HbA1c Test?
Booking an HbA1c test with Metropolis Healthcare is a simple process:
- Visit the Metropolis Healthcare website or mobile app and search for "HbA1c test".
- Select your location and preferred test package.
- Book an appointment online, choosing between home sample collection or visiting a nearby lab centre.
- Fill in your details, confirm the slot, and make payment if required.
In How Much Time Will I Get the HbA1c Test Report?
Metropolis Healthcare provides HbA1c test reports within 4 hours of sample collection after the blood sample is collected. The efficient processing ensures that you receive your results promptly, allowing for timely medical decisions and interventions.
Where Can I See or Get HbA1c Test Results?
After your HbA1c test, you can access your report digitally by logging into your account on the Metropolis Healthcare website or TruHealth mobile app. The results are securely posted under your profile, and you may also receive an SMS or email notification when the report is ready for viewing.
Is home sample collection available for HbA1c Test?
Yes, many diagnostic laboratories, including Metropolis Healthcare, offer home sample collection services for the HbA1c test. This convenient option allows individuals to have their blood samples collected by trained phlebotomists in the comfort of their homes, ensuring a safe and hassle-free experience while taking the HbA1c test.
What is the Normal HbA1c Test Range?
The HbA1c test normal range and its interpretations are as follows:
|
HbA1c (%) |
Interpretation |
|
<= 5.6 |
Normal |
|
5.7-6.4 |
Prediabetes |
|
>= 6.5 |
Diabetes diagnosis |
It's important to discuss your specific results with your doctor for personalised guidance.
Diseases That an HbA1c Test Can Help Detect
The HbA1c test plays a crucial role in detecting and managing several diabetes-related conditions:
- Type 2 diabetes: The test is used for both diagnosis and ongoing monitoring.
- Type 1 diabetes: HbA1c aids in diagnosis and assessing long-term blood sugar control.
- Prediabetes: Identifying individuals with higher-than-normal blood sugar levels who are at increased risk of developing diabetes.
- Gestational diabetes: In some cases, HbA1c may be used for ongoing assessment during pregnancy.
What Symptoms May Call for A HBa1c Test?
While not everyone with diabetes experiences noticeable symptoms, there are several warning signs that may suggest the need for an HbA1c test:
- Increased thirst and frequent urination: High blood sugar levels can cause you to feel excessively thirsty and urinate more often than usual.
- Persistent fatigue: If your body can't effectively use the glucose in your bloodstream for energy, you may feel tired and sluggish.
- Blurred vision: Elevated blood sugar can cause fluid to shift into the lenses of your eyes, leading to temporary blurred or hazy vision.
- Slow-healing wounds: High glucose levels can impair your body's ability to heal cuts, scrapes, and other injuries.
- Frequent infections: Diabetes can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections like urinary tract infections and skin infections. Elevated blood sugar acts as a medium for growth and multiplication of organisms.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to consult your doctor. They may recommend an HbA1c test to evaluate your blood sugar control and determine if lifestyle changes or medications are needed.
What Is the Importance of an HbA1c Test?
The HbA1c test holds great importance in diabetes care:
- It provides a comprehensive picture of your long-term blood sugar control, complementing daily glucose monitoring.
- The test helps guide and assess the effectiveness of diabetes treatment plans, allowing for timely adjustments.
- Regular HbA1c monitoring reduces the risk of diabetes-related complications by enabling proactive management.
- It is essential for early diagnosis and prevention strategies in individuals at risk of developing diabetes.
- The test serves as a standard criterion for diabetes diagnosis, ensuring accurate and consistent results.
How Is an HbA1c Test Done? (Step-by-Step Procedure)
The HbA1c test involves a simple blood draw procedure:
- A healthcare professional will clean an area of your skin, usually on your arm, and insert a needle into a vein.
- Blood will be drawn into a small tube, which only takes a few seconds and may cause a brief pinch.
- Once enough blood is collected, the needle will be removed, and you’ll be asked to press a piece of gauze on the spot.
- A bandage will be placed over the area, and you can return to your normal activities right away.
- The sample will be sent to the lab for analysis.
How to Manage Blood Sugar Levels with the Help of the HbA1c Test?
Here are some strategies for using your test results to keep your blood sugar in check:
- Set personal HbA1c goals: Work with your doctor to establish a target HbA1c range based on your age, overall health, and other factors. For most people with diabetes, the goal is an HbA1c below 7%.
- Make healthy lifestyle changes: Adopting a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can all help lower your HbA1c levels.
- Take medications as prescribed: If lifestyle changes alone aren't enough to manage your blood sugar, your doctor may prescribe medications like metformin or insulin.
- Monitor your progress: Regular HbA1c tests can show you how your efforts are paying off and motivate you to stay on track.
How Should You Prepare for an HbA1c Test?
One of the advantages of the HbA1c test is that it does not require any special preparation, fasting, or dietary changes beforehand. You can eat and drink normally prior to the test.
What Can I Expect During an HbA1c Test?
During the HbA1c test, you can expect the following:
- You will be seated comfortably while the doctor cleans an area of your arm.
- Blood will be drawn using a sterile needle, and you may feel a brief pinch or sting.
- The procedure takes only a few minutes, and a small bandage is applied to the puncture site once the blood is collected.
What Can I Expect After an HbA1c Test?
After the HbA1c test, you can resume your normal activities immediately. Some points to keep in mind:
- Minor bruising or soreness at the puncture site may occur but usually resolves quickly.
- Your doctor will review the results and explain their implications once the report is available.
- Based on the outcome, further tests or treatment adjustments may be recommended to optimise your diabetes management or prevent the development of diabetes.
Conditions That May Affect HbA1c Test Accuracy
While the HbA1c test is generally reliable, certain conditions can affect its accuracy:
- Certain types of anaemia, such as sickle cell anaemia or haemolytic anaemia
- Recent blood loss or blood transfusions
- Kidney or liver disease
- Pregnancy, especially in the later stages
- Presence of abnormal haemoglobins (haemoglobin variants)
It's important to discuss any relevant medical conditions with your doctor to ensure accurate interpretation of your HbA1c results.
Interpreting HbA1c Test Results
What Your HbA1c Test Results May Indicate
Your HbA1c test results provide valuable information about your blood sugar control:
- A result below 5.6% indicates normal blood sugar levels and a low risk for diabetes.
- A result between 5.7% and 6.4% suggests prediabetes, indicating an increased risk of developing diabetes.
- A result of 6.5% or higher is diagnostic of diabetes, although confirmation with a repeat test may be necessary if no symptoms are present.
What do Abnormal HbA1c Test Results Mean?
Abnormal HbA1c test results can have different implications:
- Higher than normal levels may indicate poor blood glucose control or undiagnosed diabetes.
- Moderately elevated levels (prediabetes range) are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular issues.
- Very high levels increase the risk of diabetes-related complications, such as nerve damage, kidney problems, or eye disorders.
What Should You Do if Your HbA1c Test Results Are Abnormal?
If your HbA1c test results are abnormal, it's crucial to take the following steps:
- Consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.
- Implement lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthier diet, increasing physical activity, and managing your weight, as recommended by your doctor.
- Your doctor may adjust your medications or recommend additional testing to optimise your diabetes management.
- Schedule regular follow-up HbA1c tests to monitor your progress and response to interventions.
HbA1c Tests/Packages That You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare
Metropolis Healthcare offers a range of test packages with different HbA1c test price to suit different needs:
|
Test/Package Name |
|
HbA1c Test |
All packages can be conveniently booked online, with the option of home sample collection or visiting a nearby lab centre.
Home Collection for HbA1c Test Near Me
Metropolis Healthcare offers a convenient home collection service for the HbA1c test, making diabetes management easier without compromising on quality. A trained phlebotomist will visit your home to collect a sample of blood for your HbA1c test, focusing on your comfort and safety while following strict sample handling guidelines. You can expect prompt and accurate results, enabling you to take proactive steps in managing your health. With Metropolis Healthcare’s commitment to accessible and high-quality diagnostic solutions, you can trust us for your HbA1c test needs from the comfort of your home. Experience a smooth testing process and manage your diabetes effectively with our home collection service.
HbA1c Test Price in Different Cities
The cost of an HbA1c Test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate price range for the HbA1c Test at Metropolis Healthcare in major Indian cities:
|
City |
Approximate Cost (INR) |
|
₹ 350 to ₹ 750 |
|
|
₹ 350 to ₹ 750 |
|
|
₹ 350 to ₹ 750 |
|
|
₹ 350 to ₹ 750 |
The HbA1c Test cost may vary depending on the city and the specific tests included in the panel. However, Metropolis Healthcare offers competitive HbA1c Test prices across major cities in India.
Medically Reviewed by: Dr Lynda Nazareth, Consultant Pathologist, Metropolis Healthcare Limited
HbA1c- Glycated Haemoglobin, EDTA Blood Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the HbA1c Test- Glycated Haemoglobin with a clear pricing structure.
The HbA1c Test- Glycated Haemoglobin Price in Mumbai is ₹ 640.
We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
The following are some of the other tests that may be ordered with the HbA1c test:
- Fasting Plasma Glucose Test: This measures the amount of glucose in the blood after an overnight fast.
- Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: This test is similar to the glucose tolerance test. Instead of taking a baseline blood sample, the patient drinks a glucose solution, followed by a blood test two hours later.
- Glycated Albumin Test: This test measures the albumin in the patient's blood that has become glycated.
The component of red blood cells called haemoglobin transports oxygen to the cells of the body. Haemoglobin has been glycosylated when glucose, a form of sugar, in the blood naturally binds to haemoglobin molecules (also referred to as haemoglobin A1c, or HbA1c).
A person's haemoglobin becomes more glycosylated as their blood sugar level rises. For the duration of the red blood cell or roughly two to three months, the glucose is bound to the haemoglobin.
This test may not be suitable in case of abnormal haemoglobin (hemoglobinopathy) and in haemolytic anaemia. In case your HbA1c is not reported due to haemoglobin disorders then a fructosamine test is advised.
In diabetes, the HbA1c test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 3 months. For most people with diabetes, the target HbA1c level is 7% or less, although this may vary based on individual health factors and diabetes type.
There is no specific age limit for the HbA1c test. It is generally recommended for all adults aged 45 years or older as part of routine health screening and can be suggested for younger individuals with diabetes risk factors.
The HbA1c test is mainly used to diagnose type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. However, the HbA1c test may not be reliable for diagnosing type 1 diabetes or gestational diabetes and can be affected by certain medical conditions like sickle cell anaemia, thalassemia, and anaemia.
The HbA1c test typically takes a few minutes for blood collection. HbA1c test results are usually available after 4 hours depending on the day/time the sample is collected and processed.
While both tests measure blood sugar, they provide different information. A glucose test, either fasting random or Post prandial, shows your blood sugar level at a single point in time. The HbA1c test, on the other hand, reflects your average glucose levels over the past two to three months, providing a more comprehensive picture of your blood sugar control.
Yes, the HbA1c test is a reliable and widely used method for assessing long-term blood sugar control. It has been extensively studied and is trusted by doctors for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes. However, certain factors like anaemia or recent blood transfusions can affect the accuracy of the results, so it's important to discuss any concerns with your doctor.
While the HbA1c test is not specifically designed to diagnose insulin resistance, it can provide clues about your body's ability to process glucose. Consistently elevated HbA1c levels may suggest insulin resistance, which is a precursor to type 2 diabetes. If your doctor suspects insulin resistance, they may recommend additional tests or screenings.
The frequency of HbA1c testing depends on your diabetes status and overall health. If you have diabetes, doctors recommend getting the test at least twice a year and more often if your blood sugar is not well-controlled or if you're making changes to your diabetes management plan. If you're at risk for diabetes, your doctor may suggest annual HbA1c screenings to monitor your blood sugar levels.
Yes, the HbA1c test can be used to diagnose and monitor diabetes in children. In fact, it has become the preferred method for diagnosing diabetes in children and adolescents, as it doesn't require fasting and is less influenced by day-to-day variations in blood sugar levels.
The normal HbA1c test range is below 5.6%, while 5.7% to 6.4% indicates prediabetes, and 6.5% or above is diagnostic of diabetes.
The HbA1c test can be done at any time of the day, and fasting is not required. It is typically recommended every 3-6 months for people with diabetes and annually for those at risk.
You can reduce your HbA1c levels naturally by maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep.
Common symptoms of high blood sugar include increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, fatigue, slow-healing wounds, and unexplained weight loss.
While the HbA1c test is generally reliable, certain conditions like anaemia, recent blood loss or transfusion, kidney or liver disease, and pregnancy can affect its accuracy.
Ratings & Reviews (0)
Why Metropolis?
Metropolis has a team of 200 senior pathologists and over 2000 technicians delivering diagnostic solutions in the areas of routine, semi specialty and super specialty domains like Oncology, Neurology, Gynaecology, Nephrology and many more.
We offer a comprehensive range of 4000+ clinical laboratory tests and profiles, which are used for prediction, early detection, diagnostic screening, confirmation and/or monitoring of the disease.
WhatsApp
