Top HbA1c Test Packages For Diabetics

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic health conditions in India, affecting millions of people and placing a growing strain on families and the healthcare system. Managing diabetes effectively is essential to reduce the risk of serious complications and maintain a good quality of life. While daily blood sugar checks offer helpful snapshots, they don’t tell the full story. The HbA1c test provides a more complete picture of your health by measuring your average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months. This makes it a powerful tool for both diagnosing diabetes and monitoring how well your treatment plan is working.

In this guide, we’ll explain what the HbA1c test measures, why it matters, how often you should get tested, and how to choose the right test package based on your health needs.

What Is an Hba1c Test And How It Works?

The HbA1c test, also known as the glycated haemoglobin or A1c test, is a simple but powerful blood test that provides a long-term view of your blood sugar (glucose) levels. It’s one of the most important tools for diagnosing and managing type 2 diabetes and prediabetes.

How the Test Works?

When you eat, your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose, which enters your bloodstream. Some of this glucose attaches to a protein in red blood cells called haemoglobin. The more glucose in your blood, the more haemoglobin becomes “glycated.”

Since red blood cells live for about 120 days, the HbA1c test reflects your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. This makes it more reliable than a single blood sugar reading, which can fluctuate throughout the day.

Book HbA1c Test Here

Why Regular HbA1c Testing Matters for People with Diabetes?

Keeping track of your HbA1c levels is one of the most important steps in managing diabetes. This simple blood test gives your healthcare provider a long-term view of your blood sugar control. Here are the key benefits:

• Early detection of changes: Helps identify rising blood sugar levels before symptoms appear, allowing for timely treatment adjustments.
• Personalised diabetes care: Enables your doctor to tailor medications, diet, and lifestyle recommendations based on your long-term blood sugar trends.
• Lower risk of complications: Maintaining target HbA1c levels reduces the risk of serious issues like heart disease, kidney damage, nerve problems, and vision loss.
• Confidence and clarity: Understanding your results gives you peace of mind and helps you stay motivated to follow your care plan.
• Better communication with your doctor: Provides a clear starting point for meaningful conversations about your progress and any needed changes.

How Often Should You Get an HbA1c Test if You Have Diabetes?

The number of times you need an HbA1c test each year depends on how well your blood sugar is controlled and what your doctor recommends. Here’s a simple guide:

• If you are newly diagnosed: Your doctor will likely test your HbA1c soon after diagnosis to understand your starting point and plan your treatment.
• If your diabetes is well managed: You may only need the test twice a year to make sure everything stays on track.
• If your blood sugar is not well controlled or your treatment has changed: Testing is usually done every three months to see how well your new plan is working.
• If you have prediabetes: Your doctor may suggest testing once or twice a year to monitor your risk and catch any changes early.
• If you are at high risk of diabetes: For example, if you have a family history or are overweight, your doctor might include the HbA1c test as part of a regular health checkup.

Top HbA1c Test Packages for Diabetics

While a standalone HbA1c test is invaluable, many individuals, especially those with diabetes, benefit from more comprehensive health check-up packages that include HbA1c along with other crucial parameters. At Apollo 24|7, you can easily book your HbA1c test, which offers detailed insights into your long-term blood sugar control.

When considering test packages, think about:

• Basic HbA1c Test: Ideal for routine monitoring if your doctor specifically advises only this test.
• Diabetic Health Checkup Panels: Many diagnostic providers, including Apollo 24|7's network, offer comprehensive diabetic panels that include HbA1c alongside fasting blood sugar, lipid profiles, kidney function tests, and other parameters relevant to diabetes management. These panels provide a holistic view of your health and potential diabetes-related complications. Always discuss with your doctor if a broader panel is suitable for your health needs.

Choosing a package depends on your doctor's advice, your health goals, and the frequency of testing required for your specific condition.

Book A Diabetic Panel Here

How the HbA1c Test is Performed?

The HbA1c test is a straightforward way to check your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. Here’s what you can expect:

• No Special Preparation Required: You do not need to fast before this test. You can eat and drink as usual. However, let the healthcare provider know about any medications you are taking. These typically do not affect the results.
• Blood Sample Collection: A trained technician will collect a small blood sample from a vein in your arm, usually near the elbow. The process is quick and usually takes less than five minutes.
• Laboratory Testing: Your sample is sent to a certified laboratory for analysis. Results are generally available within a few working days.

If your HbA1c test is part of a broader health checkup package, some of the other tests may require fasting. In such cases, your provider will give you clear instructions in advance.

What the Results Mean?

HbA1c Test results are expressed as a percentage. Here’s a general guide to interpreting them:

Note: These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor may set a personalised target based on your age, health status, and how long you’ve had diabetes. For most adults with diabetes, the goal is to keep HbA1c below 7%, but this can vary.

Choosing the Right HbA1c Test Package (and Provider)

When selecting an HbA1c test or a comprehensive diabetes checkup, consider the following key factors:

• Doctor’s Recommendation: Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance regarding the type and frequency of testing.
• Convenience: Choose a provider that offers online booking and home sample collection to make the process smooth and time-saving.
• Lab Accreditation and Reliability: Ensure the laboratory is NABL-accredited (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) and known for delivering accurate, dependable results.
• Comprehensive Reporting: Opt for services that provide clear, easy-to-understand reports that can be readily shared with your doctor.

Apollo 24|7 offers streamlined booking for HbA1c tests, NABL-accredited lab processing, and the added convenience of home sample collection, ensuring accurate, timely reports delivered right to your doorstep

Get These Tests To Get A Yourself Checked up

HbA1c Test (Hemoglobin A1c)

₹619(₹1547)60% off

Add

FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar )Test

₹80(₹200)60% off

Add

CBC Test (Complete Blood Count)

₹395(₹988)60% off

Add

Managing Diabetes After Your HbA1c Test

Once you receive your HbA1c results, it’s time to take action. Your healthcare provider will help you understand what the numbers mean and work with you to adjust your diabetes care plan if needed. Here are key steps that can support better blood sugar control:

• Healthy Eating: Focus on a balanced diet that includes whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables. Managing your carbohydrate intake is especially important for keeping blood sugar levels steady.
• Staying Active: Aim for regular physical activity, such as walking, cycling, or swimming. Exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively and can lower blood sugar levels over time.
• Taking Medications as Prescribed: If you’re on diabetes medications or insulin, take them exactly as directed. Skipping doses or changing your routine without guidance can affect your blood sugar control.
• Managing Stress: Stress can raise blood sugar levels. Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or spending time on activities you enjoy.
• Regular Check-ins with Your Doctor: Keep up with follow-up appointments and lab tests. These visits help track your progress and allow your provider to make any necessary changes to your treatment plan.

Conclusion

The HbA1c test is an invaluable tool in the diagnosis, monitoring, and proactive management of diabetes. By providing a clear long-term picture of your blood sugar control, it empowers you and your healthcare provider to make informed decisions that can significantly impact your health and prevent complications. Whether you are living with diabetes, have pre-diabetes, or are at high risk, regular HbA1c testing is a crucial step towards taking control of your health journey.

Don't wait to understand your blood sugar levels. Take charge of your health today. Book your HbA1c test with Apollo 24|7 for convenient, reliable, and accurate results that put you on the path to better diabetes management.