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HbA1c Blood Test

HbA1c (glycated haemoglobin) reflects your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It is the gold standard for long-term blood sugar monitoring and diabetes management.

Doctor's Assessment Included

When is this value abnormal?

Decision limits per result, in mmol/mol
Result Value (mmol/mol)
Low < 20
Normal 20–42
Borderline 42–48
Elevated ≥ 48

Het NHG adviseert HbA1c niet te gebruiken voor het opsporen of vaststellen van diabetes: "Bepaal de HbA1c-waarde niet voor de opsporing en diagnostiek van diabetes." De Nederlandse diagnose loopt via de nuchtere glucose. Een HbA1c van 48 mmol/mol of hoger past bij diabetes en moet met een tweede meting worden bevestigd; een HbA1c onder 48 sluit diabetes niet uit.

Source: Nederlands Huisartsen Genootschap Reference population: Nederlandse volwassenen (SHO referentiewaarden, IFCC)

Source: SHO Reference population: Nederlandse volwassenen (SHO referentiewaarden, IFCC)

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): what this test measures

This test measures the percentage of haemoglobin in red blood cells that has glucose attached to it. Higher percentages indicate higher average blood sugar over the preceding months.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): why this value matters

HbA1c provides a long-term view of blood sugar control, unlike fasting glucose which reflects a single point in time. It is essential for diabetes diagnosis and management. Consult your healthcare provider.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): when is testing worthwhile?

Testing is recommended for routine diabetes screening, monitoring diabetes management, or evaluating risk of pre-diabetes. It does not require fasting, making it convenient for any time of day.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Very low HbA1c may indicate frequent hypoglycaemia episodes or certain blood conditions. It should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

High Levels

Elevated HbA1c may not cause immediate symptoms but indicates poor long-term blood sugar control. Over time, this may be associated with increased risk of cardiovascular, nerve, kidney, and eye complications.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): what to do about an abnormal value

Male

If Low

Low HbA1c is normal and indicates good blood sugar control.

If High

Elevated HbA1c indicates diabetes or poor blood sugar control. Consider lifestyle changes and treatment.

Female

If Low

Low HbA1c is normal and indicates good blood sugar control.

If High

Elevated HbA1c indicates diabetes or poor blood sugar control. Consider lifestyle changes and treatment.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): lifestyle and this value

Consistent carbohydrate management, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress are key to keeping HbA1c within a healthy range. Small, sustained changes are more effective than drastic diets.

HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin): frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast for an HbA1c test?

No, HbA1c does not require fasting. It measures average blood sugar over months, so a single meal will not significantly affect the result.

How often should I test HbA1c?

For diabetes monitoring, testing every 3-6 months is common. For screening, your healthcare provider will recommend an appropriate frequency.

What is a normal HbA1c range?

Reference ranges vary by guideline. Your healthcare provider can interpret your result and explain what it means for your individual health.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.

Heart & vessels

Heart checkup

An extensive blood test with 12 heart and vessel values — the full cholesterol profile, Apo(B), Lp(a), hsCRP, homocysteine and blood sugar — for insight into your heart and vessel health.

Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Non-HDL Cholesterol Cholesterol/HDL Ratio Triglycerides ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Lipoprotein(a) hs-CRP (High Sensitivity CRP) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Creatinine
€209,-

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Medical standards

Dr. Naimi oversees the medical standards behind our content and assessments.

Medical policy
CIBG Ministerie van Volksgezondheid,
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HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin)

€27,-