HbA1c, also known as Hemoglobin A1c, is a blood test used to measure your average blood sugar level over the past 2–3 months. This test is especially important for people with diabetes or those who are at higher risk of developing it.
How Does HbA1c Work?
In the body, sugar (glucose) attaches to haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
Because red blood cells usually live for around 3 months, the HbA1c test can provide a picture of your long-term blood sugar levels, rather than just your glucose level at a single point in time.
HbA1c Levels – What Do They Mean?
The commonly used HbA1c ranges are:
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Normal: below 5.7%
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Prediabetes: 5.7%–6.4%
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Diabetes: 6.5% or above
🔎 For example, if your HbA1c result is 8%, it indicates that your average blood sugar level has been higher than the normal range over the past few months.
Why Is the HbA1c Test Important?
✔ Provides a long-term overview of blood sugar control
✔ Helps doctors assess how well diabetes treatment or medication is working
✔ Helps detect prediabetes earlier
✔ Helps patients understand the importance of maintaining healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and taking medication consistently when prescribed
Who Should Consider an HbA1c Test?
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People who have been diagnosed with diabetes
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Individuals with a family history of diabetes
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Those experiencing symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, or persistent tiredness
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Individuals who are overweight or have other risk factors for diabetes
How Often Should You Take an HbA1c Test?
📌 For people with diabetes → commonly every 3–6 months, depending on the doctor’s advice and how well blood sugar is controlled.
📌 For individuals at higher risk → the frequency of screening may depend on age, risk factors, and medical advice.
Conclusion
The HbA1c test is a simple and useful way to assess long-term blood sugar control, especially for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing it.
Early screening can help identify changes sooner and allow appropriate lifestyle or medical management to begin when needed.
📍 Get your Health Screening Package at Klinik As-Salam today.
For more information:
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📞 03-9078 3030 / 012-414 0969
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