Diabetes is one of the most common health problems in Pakistan. Many people check their blood sugar using a glucometer at home. While this is helpful, it only shows the sugar level at that specific time.
To understand how well your blood sugar has been controlled over the past few months, doctors recommend the HbA1c test. This test gives a more complete picture of your diabetes control.
If you or a family member is living with diabetes, understanding the HbA1c test can help you prevent serious health complications in the future.
What Is the HbA1c Test?
HbA1c stands for Hemoglobin A1c.
Hemoglobin is a protein present in red blood cells. Its main job is to carry oxygen throughout the body. When glucose (sugar) circulates in your blood, some of it attaches to hemoglobin. This process is called glycation.
Red blood cells live for about 120 days (around 3 months). The HbA1c test measures the percentage of hemoglobin that has sugar attached to it. Because of this, the test shows your average blood sugar level over the past 2 to 3 months.
This makes HbA1c different from other blood sugar tests that only show short-term results.
Why Is the HbA1c Test Important?
The HbA1c test is very important for people who:
- Have diabetes
- Have prediabetes
- Are at risk of developing diabetes
Here’s why this test matters:
1. Shows Long-Term Control
It gives an average of your blood sugar levels instead of one random reading.
2. Helps Adjust Treatment
Doctors use HbA1c results to decide:
- Whether your medicines are working properly
- If insulin doses need adjustment
- If lifestyle changes are effective
3. Reduces Risk of Complications
Keeping HbA1c within target range lowers the risk of:
- Kidney disease
- Eye problems (diabetic retinopathy)
- Nerve damage
- Heart disease
Normal HbA1c Levels
According to international medical guidelines:
- Below 5.7% – Normal
- 5.7% to 6.4% – Prediabetes
- 6.5% or higher – Diabetes
For people already diagnosed with diabetes, many doctors aim to keep HbA1c below 7%. However, the target may be slightly different depending on:
- Age
- Other medical conditions
- Risk of low blood sugar
- Pregnancy
Always follow your doctor’s recommendation for your individual target.
Who Should Get an HbA1c Test?
You should consider this test if you:
- Have been diagnosed with diabetes
- Have prediabetes
- Have a family history of diabetes
- Are overweight or obese
- Have high blood pressure
- Have high cholesterol
- Have symptoms like:
- Frequent urination
- Excessive thirst
- Unexplained weight loss
- Constant tiredness
How Often Should It Be Done?
For people with diabetes:
- Usually every 3 months if sugar is not controlled
- Every 6 months if diabetes is stable and controlled
Your doctor will guide you about the correct testing schedule.
Difference Between HbA1c and Regular Blood Sugar Test
Many people confuse the HbA1c test with fasting or random blood sugar tests. A fasting blood sugar test measures your sugar level at one specific time after you have not eaten for several hours, so it requires fasting. A random blood sugar test checks your sugar level at any time of the day and does not require fasting, but it only shows the level at that moment.
In contrast, the HbA1c test measures your average blood sugar level over the past 2 to 3 months. It does not require fasting and gives a broader picture of long-term diabetes control, which makes it more convenient and useful for monitoring overall sugar management.
Why Long Term Sugar Control Is Important
If blood sugar remains high for a long time, it can slowly damage important organs in the body.
1. Kidney Damage
High sugar levels can damage small blood vessels in the kidneys.
2. Eye Problems
It can affect vision and may lead to diabetic retinopathy.
3. Nerve Damage
Some patients experience numbness or burning sensation in feet.
4. Heart Disease
Diabetes increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Good HbA1c control significantly reduces these risks.
How Can You Improve Your HbA1c Level?
Improving HbA1c requires consistent effort. Here are practical steps:
Healthy Diet
- Reduce sugary drinks and sweets
- Avoid excessive white rice and white bread
- Eat more vegetables and whole grains
- Control portion sizes
Regular Exercise
- 30 minutes of walking at least 5 days a week
- Light physical activity improves insulin function
Take Medicines on Time
- Follow your doctor’s instructions
- Do not skip insulin or tablets
Regular Monitoring
- Check blood sugar regularly
- Repeat HbA1c as advised
Getting Your HbA1c Test at Chughtai Lab
For accurate and reliable results, it is important to choose a trusted diagnostic laboratory.
Chughtai Lab provides HbA1c testing with:
- Advanced laboratory equipment
- Standardized testing procedures
- Trained laboratory professionals
- Wide network of collection centers across Pakistan
Home Sampling Facility
For patient convenience, Chughtai Lab also offers home sample collection.
This is helpful for:
- Elderly patients
- Busy professionals
- People with limited mobility
- Patients who prefer testing at home
You can book a home sampling appointment through their website or helpline.
Online Report Access
After your test:
- Reports can be accessed online
- You can download and share with your doctor
- Saves time and avoids unnecessary travel
This makes diabetes monitoring easier and more convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does HbA1c test require fasting?
No. You can take the test at any time of the day without fasting.
2. Can HbA1c diagnose diabetes?
Yes. An HbA1c level of 6.5% or higher on two separate tests may indicate diabetes. Your doctor will confirm the diagnosis.
3. Is HbA1c affected by one high-sugar meal?
No. It reflects average sugar levels over 2–3 months, not one meal.
4. How long does it take to get results?
In most diagnostic laboratories, results are available within the same day or as per lab policy.
5. What happens if my HbA1c is high?
Your doctor may:
- Adjust medication
- Recommend lifestyle changes
- Suggest more frequent monitoring
6. Can HbA1c be low?
Yes. Very low HbA1c may occur in people with frequent low blood sugar episodes. It should be discussed with a doctor.
The HbA1c test is one of the most important tools for managing diabetes. It provides a clear picture of your long-term blood sugar control and helps prevent serious complications. Regular testing, healthy lifestyle choices, and proper medical guidance can help you live a healthier life with diabetes. If you or a loved one is living with diabetes, consider regular HbA1c monitoring for better long term control.
