HbA1c blood test for the risk of prediabetes

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HbA1C Test also known as the Haemoglobin A1c test is used to monitor the average blood sugar level to help make the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and to identify the risk of prediabetes. The glucose in the blood binds to the hemoglobin ( the protein cell which carries the oxygen in the red blood cells ). This combination is called HbA1c.

The average red blood cells live in the body for 2-3 months. Measuring the HbA1C level which is directly associated with the glucose ( sugar in the blood ) concentration. Hence having high levels of HbA1c in the blood reflects the risk of developing diabetes. For people with diagnosed type 2 diabetes, high levels of blood glucose directly affect the result of your HbA1c blood test.

It is recommended to have your HbA1c tested at least twice a year for everyone with diabetes. We recommend getting your HbA1C checked every year as part of a routine health check-up if you are diabetic. You can order your simple home blood test via our shop with delivery all year round.

Symptoms of type two diabetes include but are not limited to :

• using the toilet to pee more than usual, particularly during the nighttime

• unexplained weight loss

• body wounds take longer than usual to heal

• blurred vision

For a full list of symptoms check the NHS website here. You can check your diabetes risk using a simple and discreet questionnaire on the diabetes UK website.

The World Health Organization (WHO) proposes the following diagnostic guidelines for diabetes:

• HbA1c <42 mmol / mol (6.0%): non-diabetic patients

• HbA1c 42-47 mmol / mol (6.0-6.4%): Glucose dysregulation (IGR) or prediabetes

• HbA1c: type 2 diabetes above 48 mmol / mol (6.5%)

If the HbA1c blood test shows a value of 6.0-6.4%, this indicates prediabetes. Your doctor should work with you to suggest appropriate lifestyle changes that can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

You can check our affordable blood testing packages here. You can use the code Health10 for 10% off your first order.