Diabetes Blood Test HbA1c
Feb 2, 2026
Diabetes Blood Test HbA1c
An HbA1c blood test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months—providing the most accurate picture of diabetes risk, with approximately 4.3 million people in the UK living with diabetes and another 2 million undiagnosed. Unlike fasting glucose tests that show a single moment in time, HbA1c reveals your long-term blood sugar control.
At Blood Test London, HbA1c testing costs from £245 with results in 2-3 days.
What Does HbA1c Measure?
HbA1c (glycated haemoglobin) measures the percentage of red blood cells with glucose attached. Since red blood cells live for about 3 months, this shows your average blood sugar during that time.
HbA1c Level | Interpretation |
|---|---|
Below 42 mmol/mol (6.0%) | Normal |
42-47 mmol/mol (6.0-6.4%) | Prediabetes |
48 mmol/mol+ (6.5%+) | Diabetes |
Why HbA1c Is the Gold Standard
Better than fasting glucose:
Not affected by what you ate yesterday
Shows long-term pattern, not a snapshot
More reliable and reproducible
No fasting required
Signs You Should Test
Diabetes Risk Factors
Age over 40
Overweight (BMI over 25)
Family history of diabetes
South Asian, African, or Caribbean heritage
History of gestational diabetes
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)
Warning Symptoms
Increased thirst
Frequent urination
Unexplained fatigue
Blurred vision
Slow-healing cuts
Tingling in hands/feet
Understanding Your Results
Normal (Below 42 mmol/mol)
Your blood sugar control is healthy. Retest every 3 years, or sooner if risk factors develop.
Prediabetes (42-47 mmol/mol)
Your blood sugar is elevated but not yet diabetic. This is reversible with lifestyle changes. Without action, 5-10% of people with prediabetes develop diabetes each year.
Diabetes (48 mmol/mol or above)
Diabetes is diagnosed. With proper management, you can prevent complications and live a healthy life.
How to Improve Blood Sugar
Diet (Most Important)
Eat more:
Non-starchy vegetables
Whole grains (in moderation)
Lean protein
Healthy fats
Fibre-rich foods
Eat less:
Refined carbohydrates (white bread, pasta)
Sugar and sugary drinks
Processed foods
Excessive fruit juice
Lifestyle
Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
Lose 5-7% body weight | Can prevent diabetes progression |
150 min exercise/week | Improves insulin sensitivity |
Better sleep | Poor sleep affects blood sugar |
Stress management | Cortisol raises blood sugar |
Reversing Prediabetes
Research shows prediabetes can be reversed in 50%+ of cases with diet and exercise.
Book Your Diabetes Test
Price: From £245
Results: 2-3 days
Doctor review: A doctor always reviews every result
Fasting required: No
FAQ
Do I need to fast for HbA1c?
No—that's one of its advantages. Test anytime.
How often should I test?
Every 3 years if normal and no risk factors; annually if prediabetic; every 3-6 months if diabetic.
Can type 2 diabetes be reversed?
In early stages, significant weight loss and lifestyle changes can put diabetes into remission.
Is HbA1c affected by anything else?
Certain conditions (anaemia, kidney disease) can affect results. Your doctor will consider this.
Blood Test London by The Wellness. Diabetes testing from £245, results in 2-3 days.