The Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) Test is a simple blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 3 months. It's one of the most commonly used tests to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes.
Here are the basic details for HbA1c Test.
Also Known As | A1C Test, Glycated Hemoglobin Test |
Type | Blood Test |
Purpose |
Measures Average Blood Sugar Levels |
Sample Type | Blood |
Preparation | No Special Preparation Required |
Fasting | No |
Gender | Unisex |
Age-Group | All Ages |
Normal Value | < 5.7 mg/dL |
Reporting Time | 1 - 2 hours |
Cost | 300 - 600* INR |
*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.
Interesting Facts About Blood Glucose Levels
- Blood glucose levels fluctuate throughout the day.
- Insulin helps regulate blood glucose by promoting its uptake.
- High blood glucose can lead to diabetes complications.
- Low blood glucose can cause hypoglycemia symptoms.
- Regular monitoring helps maintain stable blood glucose levels.
Here is HbA1c Test Preparation.
Summary
Before an HbA1c test, follow heathcare providers instructions and information about medications, and no special precautions are needed after the test.
Here is the basic procedure of the HbA1c test:
HbA1c Test Normal Report PDF
HbA1c Test Abnormal Report PDF
Here is the HbA1c test normal values.
HbA1c Level | Average Blood Sugar Level |
---|---|
Below 5.7% | Below 117 mg/dL |
5.7%-6.4% | 117-137 mg/dL |
6.5% or higher | Over 137 mg/dL |
Here is information on the HbA1c test interpretation.
HbA1c Level | Interpretation |
---|---|
<5.7% | Normal |
5.7% to 6.4% | Prediabetes (increased risk) |
≥6.5% | Diabetes (confirmed diagnosis) |
Here are the specimen requirements for HbA1c Test.
Specimen | Whole Blood |
Volume | 2.5 mL |
Container | 4ml Lavender top tube |
Here are the potential High HbA1c levels causes.
High HbA1c Causes | Description |
---|---|
Poorly controlled diabetes | High blood sugar levels over an extended period due to inadequate diabetes management |
Insulin resistance | A condition where cells do not respond effectively to insulin, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels |
Pancreatic disorders | Diseases or damage to the pancreas, such as pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer, can affect insulin production and lead to high blood sugar |
Certain medications | Some medications, such as corticosteroids and diuretics, can affect blood sugar levels |
Chronic kidney disease | The kidneys play a vital role in regulating blood sugar levels. When they don't function correctly, it can cause high blood sugar levels |
Here are the potential Low HbA1c levels causes.
Low HbA1c Causes | Description |
---|---|
Iron-deficiency anemia | A condition where there is a lack of iron in the body, which can affect the formation of hemoglobin and HbA1c levels |
Blood loss | Significant blood loss due to injury, surgery, or menstruation can reduce the number of red blood cells in the body and affect HbA1c levels |
Sickle cell anemia | A genetic condition where the shape of red blood cells is abnormal, which can affect their lifespan and the accuracy of HbA1c measurements |
Thalassemia | A group of genetic disorders that affect the production of hemoglobin, which can result in low HbA1c levels |
Kidney disease | In rare cases, kidney disease can affect the formation and lifespan of red blood cells, leading to low HbA1c levels |
Summary
High HbA1c levels indicate poor blood sugar control and a risk for diabetes complications, while low levels may be an indicator of hypoglycemia or tight glucose control.
Here are some possible limitations of the HbA1c Test.
Here is the potential risk factor of the HbA1c Test.
Here are Doctor recommendations or consult a specialist after HbA1c Test.
HbA1c Test Result | Doctor to Visit | Reason to Go to Doctor |
---|---|---|
High | Endocrinologist | Diabetes management |
Normal | Primary Care Doctor | Routine follow-up |
Low | Primary Care Doctor | Investigate potential causes |
Here are the estimated HbA1c Test Price in India with different top cities:
City | Price Range (INR)* |
---|---|
Mumbai | 300 - 600 |
New Delhi | 400 - 600 |
Bangalore | 400 - 600 |
Hyderabad | 300 - 600 |
Kolkata | 400 - 600 |
Pune | 400 - 600 |
Lucknow | 300 - 600 |
Noida | 400 - 600 |
Surat | 300 - 600 |
Gurugram | 400 - 600 |
Patna | 300 - 600 |
Chennai | 400 - 600 |
Jaipur | 300 - 600 |
Ahmedabad | 400 - 600 |
*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.
Summary
Overall, Regular HbA1c testing is important for monitoring and managing blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes and can help prevent long-term complications. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.
Reference
An HbA1c test, also known as a glycated hemoglobin test, measures the average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months.
The HbA1c test is primarily used to assess and monitor blood sugar control in individuals with diabetes.
The HbA1c test requires a blood sample, usually obtained by a simple blood draw from a vein in the arm.
The results of the HbA1c test reflect the average blood sugar levels over a prolonged period.
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