Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No special preparation is required
- Turnaround: 1-2 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
This test measures your hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), a calculated percentage that reflects your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. Because red blood cells carry glucose-bound hemoglobin for the duration of their lifespan, HbA1c provides a longer-term picture of glycemic control rather than a snapshot of your blood sugar at one moment in time.
Along with HbA1c, this test reports an estimated average glucose (eAG) value. eAG translates your HbA1c percentage into a number expressed in the same units used by day-to-day glucose monitoring, making it easier to relate your longer-term result to readings you may already be familiar with. This test does not measure current, real-time blood glucose.
Benefits
- Reflects average blood sugar levels over 2-3 months
- Provides an eAG value alongside your HbA1c percentage
- Helps track longer-term glycemic control over time
- Requires no special preparation before testing
- Offers a convenient way to monitor diabetes management trends
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals working with a provider to monitor diabetes management
- People wanting insight into longer-term average blood sugar levels
- Those who want an eAG value alongside their HbA1c result
- Individuals tracking glycemic control trends over time
- People whose provider has recommended periodic HbA1c testing
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. Do I need to fast or prepare for this test?
No special preparation is required for this test. You can visit the lab for your blood draw without fasting or making any changes to your normal routine beforehand.
2. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available within 1-2 days, though this may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
3. What can my results tell me?
Your HbA1c result offers a picture of your average blood sugar over the preceding 2-3 months, while the accompanying eAG value translates that percentage into a familiar glucose-reading format. Together, these numbers give a longer-term view of glycemic trends rather than a single point-in-time reading.
4. What factors can affect my results?
Because HbA1c reflects the lifespan of red blood cells, certain conditions affecting red blood cell turnover can influence results. Since this test requires no special preparation, factors like fasting status or recent meals are not part of the stated protocol for this particular test.
5. How do I interpret the results?
Interpreting your HbA1c and eAG results depends on your overall health history, any prior test results, and the clinical context your healthcare provider is evaluating. A single result, whether higher or lower than expected, should be reviewed alongside other information your provider has about your health rather than viewed in isolation.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
6. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
Share your results with a qualified healthcare provider, who can help determine what they mean in the context of your health and whether further evaluation is warranted. Your provider is best positioned to decide on any appropriate next steps based on your individual situation.
Pre-test preparation
No special preparation is required for this test.
