Hb A1c – Glycated Haemoglobin

Haematology

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Description

The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) ended after 10 years in 1993 a year earlier than planned�when the study proved that participants who kept their blood glucose levels close to normal greatly lowered their chances of having eye, kidney, and nerve disease.

Glucose in the circulation binds to haemoglobin. This combination of glucose and haemoglobin is called haemoglobin A1c or Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c).

The amount of HbA1c formed is directly related to the average concentration of glucose in the bloodstream.

Red blood cells have a lifespan of 2-3 months, and because of this, the amount of HbA1c measured reflects the average level of glucose during the last 2-3 months.

If a patient's diabetes is not well controlled, blood glucose levels will be high, causing higher HbA1c levels.

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Indications

Diabetic patients/Population Screening

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Sample Type

Whole blood ( EDTA 4.0ml Lavender )

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Reference Range

19-41mmol/mol non diabetic range
42-47mmol/mol pre-diabetic range
48mmol/mol and above diabetic range

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Turnaround Time

Within 1 working day

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Testing Frequency

MON-FRI

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External Notes

May flag up the presence of a variant haemoglobin

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Please note: the above information is subject to change and we endeavour to keep this website up to date wherever necessary.