By checking your HbA1c levels regularly, you can understand your risk of pre-diabetes and diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes tends to affect men earlier in their lives than women. But women who have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes due to increased insulin resistance.
This test might also be helpful if:
Find out how to manage your HbA1c levels with evidence-based advice from our GPs in a detailed report.
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HbA1c refers to glycated haemoglobin. When the glucose (sugar) in your blood rises, it binds to the haemoglobin in your red blood cells. Red blood cells live for about 3 months, so an HbA1c test measures your average blood glucose levels over the last few months.
Your test kit contains everything you need to collect your sample at home. Our instructions will guide you through it.
Your kit arrives in 1-2 days. Find out how to collect your sample at home. You’ll need to fill 1 tube for this test — around 10 drops of blood.
Free post your sample to our lab and get your results in 48 hours. Access your GP-reviewed report in your results dashboard.
Our doctors give you evidence-based tips to help you support your health. And you can access articles, podcasts, and recipes.
Is an HbA1c blood test suitable for you?
An HbA1c test won’t tell you how high your blood sugar is. But it can tell you if your blood sugar has been high over the last 3 months. Some conditions can cause fluctuations in your HbA1c levels.
A doctor won't use this type of test if diagnosing diabetes. This includes if you:
- are pregnant or gave birth in the last 2 months
- have only been experiencing diabetes symptoms for 2 months — like frequent urination or excessive thirst
- take medication that can affect your blood sugar levels — like long-term steroid treatment and some antibiotics
- are currently acutely ill (a sudden and severe sickness)
- have pancreatic problems
- have end-stage kidney disease
- are HIV positive
What’s a normal range for HbA1c?
The ranges for HbA1c levels are defined as:
- normal range = below 42 mmol/mol
- prediabetes = 42-47 mmol/mol
- indicates diabetes = 48 mmol or over
Data protection
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What's included in your home testing kit?
Your Thriva test kit includes:
- collection tube(s)
- plaster x 2
- return form x 1
- alcohol swab x 1
- lancet x 3
- prepaid envelope x 1
- cleansing wipe x 1
- collection tube label(s)
- protective plastic case x 1
When's the best time to do an HbA1c test?
We recommend doing your HbA1c test in the morning — between 8 and 10 am if possible. You don't need to fast beforehand.
How to collect your sample at home
Learn how to collect your finger-prick blood sample at home by following our instructions. You can access these on the app too. It takes around 30 minutes to complete the process at home.
Will a GP write your report?
Our doctors review your blood test results and upload a detailed report to your account dashboard. They also give you advice to help support your health or manage an existing condition.
How long does it take to get your results?
Understanding your health should be quick and easy. That’s why our doctors share your results within 48 hours. And you can access your data at any time.