Hemoglobin A1c

Test Description

Also called A1c or glycated hemoglobin, Hemoglobin A1c is hemoglobin with glucose attached. The hemoglobin A1c test examines the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last two or three months by determining the glycated hemoglobin percentage in the blood. An oxygen-transporting protein, Hemoglobin is found inside RBCs (red blood cells). These are numerous types of normal hemoglobin. However, the predominant form is hemoglobin A - about 95-96%. As glucose flows in the blood, some of it binds to hemoglobin A spontaneously. The higher the level of the glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. When the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it stays there for the life of red blood cell - generally about 120 days. The foremost glycated hemoglobin form is known as A1c, which is produced on a regular basis and gradually removed from the blood as older red blood cells die and younger ones take their place. An A1c test may be performed to screen for and diagnose diabetes or the chance of developing diabetes in adults. A1c test is also performed to monitor treatment for people diagnosed with diabetes. It aids to examine how well levels of glucose have been managed by treatment with time. For monitoring purposes, less than 7% of an A1c signifies good glucose control and a lower chance of diabetic complications for an individual with diabetes.
When to Order Hemoglobin A1c Test?
For screening and diagnosis, Hemoglobin A1c test may be recommended as part of a regular health checkup or when a person is suspected of having diabetes because of standard symptoms and signs of increased blood glucose levels, like:

Increased thirst and drinking fluids

Increased appetite

Increased urination

Blurred vision

Fatigue

Slow-heading infections

The Hemoglobin A1c test may also be recommended for adults who are obese with the below additional risk factors such as:

Physical activity

High-risk race or ethnicity, for instance, Latino, Asian America, African American, and Pacific Islander

First-degree relative - parent or sibling with diabetes

Hypertension or high blood pressure

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Abnormal lipid pane - high triglycerides or low HDL cholesterol

History of cardiovascular diseases

Other clinical conditions related to insulin resistance

The ADA recommends starting Hemoglobin A1c testing at age 45 for obese people. If the result of the test is normal, then testing should be done again at a minimum of 3-year intervals. Interpreting the Hemoglobin A1c Test Results For screening and diagnosis, some test results that may be witnessed include:

An individual who doesn’t have diabetes: A1c level is less than 5.7%

Diabetes: t A1c level is around 6.5%

Increased chance of developing diabetes in the future (Prediabetes): A1c level is 5.7% to 6.4%

For monitoring purposes, A1c is presently determined as a percentage. For most people with diabetes, it is suggested that they try to keep their hemoglobin A1x below 7%.
Testing Info

Alternate Name: HbA1c, glycated hemoglobin, glycosylated hemoglobin, HbA1c, A1c

Test Instructions : Please do not exercise prior to testing. It is best that your blood is taken in a rested state.

Fasting: No

Methodology: Immunoturbidimetry

Results In: 2

Note: Turn around times on results are an estimate and are not guaranteed. The lab may need additional time due to holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, etc. You can contact us to discuss when your results should be ready and we will contact the lab on your behalf immediately.