HbA1c Test

The HbA1c test, also called glycated hemoglobin or glycohemoglobin, measures how well your diabetes is being controlled over time. Hemoglobin in the blood naturally binds with glucose, forming glycosylated hemoglobin. Once glucose attaches to hemoglobin, it remains fixed for the lifespan of the red blood cell — approximately 120 days. Because red cells are continuously being formed and replaced, the HbA1c result represents your average blood glucose level over the previous 6–8 weeks, making it a dependable marker of long-term glucose control.

Higher HbA1c levels indicate poor management of blood sugar and an increased risk of long-term complications such as kidney damage, neuropathy, heart disease, retinopathy, and stroke. When diabetes is well controlled, HbA1c readings return closer to normal reference levels. The test is recommended at the time of diagnosis and at regular intervals thereafter — ideally twice a year for individuals with stable glucose control, and up to four times a year for those with Type 1 diabetes or uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes on insulin.

The HbA1c test helps doctors evaluate treatment plans, make medication adjustments, measure the impact of lifestyle changes, and reduce the risk of severe diabetic complications.

Assesses average blood glucose levels over 6–8 weeks to evaluate diabetes control and treatment response.