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Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) Testing (HbA1c)

The Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test is also known as a Haemoglobin A1c or Glycosylated haemoglobin test.

All you need to know about testing Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels with a laboratory test

  • What is the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test for?
  • How to test Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c)?
  • What if Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) results are high?
  • What if Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) results are low?
  • Who should take the Diabetes (HbA1c) Blood test?
  • Are there any limitations to the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test?
  • Can the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test diagnose other conditions apart from diabetes?
  • How often should I use the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test kit?
  • What if my Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test results are within normal range?
  • What if my Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test results are positive for diabetes?
  • What do the results of the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test mean?
  • How is the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test performed?
  • Why should I take the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test?
  • What is the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test?

Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) Testing UK Statistics 2026

Icon For Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c)
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5.7% of people tested have Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels which are too high.

And 0.2% have levels that are too low.

35.5

Normal
0 - 42

High
42 +

The average Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) result is 35.5 mMol/Mol
Note what is normal for you may differ for your age and sex.

Are you in the 94.0% with normal results?
Get Tested ›

What Is The Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) Test For?

HbA1c is a type of haemoglobin that forms naturally in the body, when sugars bind with haemoglobin in the blood.

This process happens slowly so the test indicates your average blood sugar levels over the last 2 to 3 months.

This test can be used to assess if you are diabetic, monitor response to lifestyle change or treatment by assessing the change in level of glycated haemoglobin. 

Note: For patients with red blood cell diseases (such as haemolytic anaemia), HbA1c may not accurately reflect glucose control and a different test is required.

How To Test Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c)

By buying a laboratory test kit with professional nurse or clinic collection, you can accurately measure Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) for total reassurance.

Professional analysis in an accredited laboratory ensures rapid result delivery.

The Vitall Diabetes (HbA1c) nurse or clinic test kit includes a Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test and is available for just £59.00.

Tests which include a Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test:

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Take Control Of Your Health | Home Blood Testing Services

Diabetes (HbA1c) Test Kit

Diabetes (HbA1c) test kit
Diabetes (HbA1c) Home Test Kit UK

Diabetes (HbA1c) Test Kit

Assess average blood sugar levels & risk from Type 2 diabetes

£59.00

View Full Details ›

What if Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) Results Are High?

High HbA1c indicates an abnormally high blood glucose level over the past several weeks. A level between 42 and 47 mmol/mol suggests a higher risk of developing diabetes (often called pre-diabetes), and a result over 48 mmol/mol indicates that diabetes has likely developed.

In people already known to have diabetes, an HbA1c below 48 mmol/mol does not necessarily mean diabetes is no longer present; it more often reflects that diabetes is well controlled.

HbA1c is a continuous risk factor for type 2 diabetes, meaning there is no single fixed threshold at which risk suddenly begins or ends. While “high risk” is commonly considered to start at 42 mmol/mol, lower HbA1c values within the normal range are generally linked with lower risk.

Lower blood sugar levels are commonly associated with balanced, healthy eating and a more active lifestyle or fitness programme. Testing every three months is sometimes used to monitor change over time.

What if Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) Results Are Low?

In general, a low HbA1c level is seen as positive, as it suggests that over several weeks red blood cells have not been exposed to high glucose levels.

Low HbA1c levels can also occur in association with excess alcohol consumption, liver disease, certain inherited blood disorders, and low red blood cell levels.

An abnormal type of haemoglobin (for example, in sickle cell disease) can also lead to low HbA1c results. Haemolysis or heavy bleeding may make HbA1c results appear falsely low.

In people known to have diabetes, an abnormally low HbA1c is sometimes discussed with a GP to check whether one of the blood-related factors listed above could be contributing.

Who Should Take This Test?

Measure your Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and assess average blood sugar levels & risk from type 2 diabetes with a Diabetes (HbA1c) nurse or clinic finger-prick bloodtest kit

You get the convenient testing with the reassurance of professional clinical analysis. Your results are delivered quickly & securely online.

This Diabetes (HbA1c) Test is advised if you:

  • want the convenience of home testing without waiting for a GP appointment;
  • need a high quality, clinically accredited test done in a professional clinical laboratory.

Are there any limitations to the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test?

There are certain conditions that could make the HbA1c test inaccurate — such as if you're pregnant or have an uncommon form of haemoglobin (known as a haemoglobin variant). 

Additionally, conditions like kidney failure, liver disease, or recent blood loss or transfusion can also impact the accuracy of the HbA1c test. These factors can affect the lifespan of red blood cells or alter haemoglobin itself, which may lead to misleading HbA1c results.

Can the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test diagnose other conditions apart from diabetes?

The primary use for the HbA1c test is diagnosing and monitoring diabetes. However, abnormally high HbA1c levels may also be found in people with conditions that increase the life span of red blood cells, such as kidney disease or certain types of anaemia.

How often should I use the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test kit?

If you're diagnosed with diabetes, healthcare professionals generally recommend the HbA1c test 2-4 times a year. If your diabetes is well controlled and your HbA1c levels have consistently been within target, you might require the test less frequently

What if my Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test results are within normal range?

If your HbA1c levels are within the normal range, continue with your healthcare provider’s recommended routine for prevention or management of diabetes.

What if my Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test results are positive for diabetes?

If your HbA1c test results indicate diabetes, consult with your healthcare provider for a treatment plan. Managing diabetes often entails lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise, and medication may also be necessary.

What do the results of the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test mean?

An HbA1c level below 39 mmol/mol is considered normal. A level from 39 to 47 mmol/mol indicates pre-diabetes, and a level of 48 mmol/mol or higher indicates diabetes. For people with diabetes, maintaining an HbA1c level of 53 mmol/mol or less is often a common treatment target. Always consult your GP for advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

How is the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test performed?

Vitall’s HbA1c test is a finger-prick test. You'll take a small blood sample from your own finger at home and send it to a UKAS accredited lab for analysis by medical professionals. Complete instructions are included in your at-home test kit.

Why should I take the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test?

The HbA1c test is an important tool for managing diabetes. It can help diagnose diabetes, assess whether your condition is in control, and predict your risk for complications of diabetes. If you experience symptoms like frequent urination, increased thirst, unexplained weight loss, fatigue or blurred vision, you may need the HbA1c test to determine if you have diabetes.

What is the Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test?

The Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) test, also known as Haemoglobin A1c or Glycosylated haemoglobin test, is a blood test that reflects your average blood glucose levels over the past three months. It is primarily used to diagnose Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, and to monitor glucose control in individuals with diabetes.

Other Biomarkers Often Tested With Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c)

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