What is HbA1c?
HbA1c, also known as Glycated Hemoglobin or Glycosylated Hemoglobin, is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. Unlike a regular blood sugar test that shows your level at a single moment, HbA1c gives a longer-term picture of your blood sugar control.
How Does It Work?
When sugar enters your bloodstream, it attaches to hemoglobin — a protein in your red blood cells. Everyone has some sugar attached to their hemoglobin, but people with higher blood sugar levels have more. The HbA1c test measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with sugar (glycated).
Since red blood cells live for about 2-3 months, the test reflects your average blood sugar during that period.
Normal HbA1c Levels
- <strong>Normal</strong>: Below 5.7%
- <strong>Prediabetes</strong>: 5.7% to 6.4%
- <strong>Diabetes</strong>: 6.5% or above
For people already diagnosed with diabetes, the target is usually below 7%, though your doctor may set a different target based on your individual health profile.
Why is HbA1c Important?
- **Diagnosis**: It helps diagnose Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes
- **Monitoring**: It shows how well your diabetes management plan is working
- **No fasting required**: Unlike glucose fasting tests, you don't need to fast before an HbA1c test
- **Long-term view**: Gives a 2-3 month average rather than a single snapshot
How Often Should You Get Tested?
- <strong>If you have diabetes</strong>: Every 3-6 months
- <strong>If you have prediabetes</strong>: Once a year
- <strong>For screening</strong>: At least once every 3 years if you're over 45 or have risk factors
Get Your HbA1c Test at Shreeji Lab
At Shreeji Pathological Laboratory, we use fully automated analyzers for precise HbA1c measurement. Walk in any time — no appointment or fasting needed. Results are typically available the same day.