HbA1c (Glycated haemoglobin) is made when glucose (sugar) in your body sticks to your red blood cells. When your body can’t use the sugar properly, the glucose sticks to your blood cells and eventually builds up in your blood; this can result in high levels of HbA1c which can sometimes indicate diabetes or prediabetes.
See also: What Is Insulin Resistance?
What is a normal HbA1c level?
A HBA1c test will help indicate your levels; an ideal HbA1c level is 48mmol/mol (6.5%) or below while an A1C between 5.7-6.4% signals prediabetes and an A1c over 6.5% indicates type 2 diabetes.
See also: What Does High Blood Sugar Mean?
What is a HBA1c test?
A HbA1c test is a simple blood test that can detect your HbA1c levels. While it can be used to keep an eye on how well your diabetes is being controlled, it is also used to diagnose diabetes as well as prediabetes.
If you have diabetes, it’s recommended that you check your levels every few months with a HbA1c test [1].
See also: How Do You Check For Diabetes From Home?
The most reliable way to check for Diabetes from home is with an at-home blood test.
LetsGetChecked’s Diabetes Test tests for HBA1c and can help identify diabetes or prediabetes, or determine how well your diabetes is being managed following diagnosis, all with a simple finger-prick. Your online results will be available within 5 days and our dedicated medical team will be on hand to answer any questions you may have.
You should consider taking the test if:
- You have diabetes type 1 or type 2
- You have a family history of diabetes
- You are presenting with symptoms of diabetes
References
