Quick Reference
- Full form
- Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c)
- Sample type
- Blood (venous)
- Fasting
- Not required
- Average blood sugar window measured
- 3 Months
- Report turnaround
- Same Day
- Available at
- All locations
About HbA1c Test
HbA1c tells you and your doctor how your blood sugar has behaved over roughly the last three months, not just on the day of the test. That is what makes it so useful for anyone managing or screening for diabetes.
Unlike a fasting sugar test, there is no need to arrive hungry. The test measures how much sugar has attached itself to your hemoglobin over time, so a single meal the night before will not throw off your result.
We report your HbA1c as a percentage, and your doctor will compare it against the standard diabetes and pre-diabetes ranges to decide on next steps, whether that is lifestyle changes or adjusting medication.
How to Prepare
- No fasting required. Eat and drink normally. Book at any hour we are open.
- Do not change your routine beforehand. Eating carefully for three days will not move a three-month average, and only hides information your doctor needs.
- Time of day does not matter. Unlike fasting or random sugar, HbA1c does not fluctuate through the day.
- Mention anaemia, thalassaemia, recent blood transfusion, or kidney disease, since all of these affect interpretation.
- Mention pregnancy. Different tests are generally preferred in pregnancy.
- Bring your previous reports if you have them, because the trend matters more than any single value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal HbA1c level?
Most labs consider below 5.7% normal, 5.7% to 6.4% pre-diabetic range, and 6.5% or above consistent with diabetes, though your doctor will interpret this alongside your symptoms and history.
Do I need to fast before an HbA1c test?
No fasting is required. HbA1c reflects your average blood sugar over the past three months, so a recent meal will not change the result.
How is HbA1c different from a random blood sugar test?
A random sugar test shows your glucose level at that exact moment, while HbA1c shows the average over months, making it more useful for tracking long-term control.
How often should a diabetic get an HbA1c test done?
Most doctors recommend checking HbA1c every three months for patients on treatment, since that matches how long the marker takes to reflect new changes.
When will my HbA1c report be ready?
Your report is ready the same day, and you can access it digitally through WhatsApp as soon as it is signed off.
Can City Care Lab collect my HbA1c sample at home?
Yes, we offer free home sample collection in all City Care Lab service areas, which is especially helpful for elderly patients who test regularly.
This page provides general health information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Speak with your doctor about your specific results and treatment.