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Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c)

What is Haemoglobin (Hb)?
Haemoglobin is the red-pigmented protein found in red blood cells (erythrocytes), made up of four protein subunits, each containing a heme group. Its primary function is to carry oxygen from the lungs to body tissues.

Understanding HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin)
HbA1c is a form of haemoglobin that becomes glycated when glucose in the blood binds to it. The proportion of HbA1c increases in response to higher average blood glucose levels over time.

HbA1c and Blood Glucose Monitoring
The conversion of haemoglobin to HbA1c occurs gradually and is influenced by the life span of red blood cells—approximately 100 to 120 days. As a result, HbA1c provides a reliable indication of average blood glucose levels over the past 2 to 3 months.

Clinical Importance of HbA1c Testing
HbA1c testing is widely used to:

Monitor long-term glucose control in individuals with diabetes mellitus

Guide treatment plans and medication adjustments

Assess diabetes risk and diagnose prediabetes or type 2 diabetes

Private HbA1c Testing in Slough and Surrounding Areas
HbA1c blood testing is available in Slough, Windsor, Maidenhead, and nearby Berkshire locations. This essential test supports effective diabetes management by tracking long-term glucose control and helping prevent diabetes-related complications.