HBA1C
This test measures your average blood sugar levels over the last 8–12 weeks. It is essential for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes and prediabetes.
Turnaround time
1-2 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about HBA1C
What is an HbA1c test?
An HbA1c test measures the percentage of haemoglobin in your blood that has glucose attached to it. Because red blood cells live for around 3 months, this test reflects your average blood sugar over time rather than a single moment.
It is one of the most reliable tests for diagnosing prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and monitoring long-term glucose control.
Why do I need an HbA1c test?
Blood sugar problems often develop silently without symptoms until complications appear.
Reasons for testing include:
• Family history of diabetes
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Persistent fatigue
• Frequent urination or thirst
• Blurred vision
• Monitoring known diabetes
• Assessing insulin resistance
• Routine health screening
Benefits of the test
1. Shows 3-month average blood sugar
2. Diagnoses prediabetes and diabetes
3. Monitors diabetes control
4. Not affected by daily food intake
5. Identifies insulin resistance trends
6. Useful for routine screening
7. Helps prevent complications
8. Guides lifestyle and treatment decisions
Expanded benefit explanation
Unlike a single glucose test, HbA1c reveals long-term sugar exposure in the blood, making it essential for accurate metabolic assessment.
Step-by-step — How testing works
We offer two UK-wide testing options:
Clinic testing
• Choose nearest UK clinic
• Blood sample collected
• Laboratory analysis performed
• Results securely returned
Home visit (+£60)
• Phlebotomist visits you
• Blood sample collected safely
• Sample sent to lab
• Results delivered confidentially
Your results explained
Low levels
Below 42 mmol/mol (6.0%) – Normal glucose control.
Borderline / Prediabetes
42–47 mmol/mol (6.0–6.4%) – Increased diabetes risk.
High levels / Diabetes range
48 mmol/mol (6.5%) or higher – Diagnostic for diabetes.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.