HBA1C (Diabetes) Test

End-to-end Hemoglobin A1c Test (including sample collection kit): capillary blood collection, DBS MTL Kit Please collect your sample on a Monday-Friday before noon as it needs to be shipped to the lab on the same morning it’s collected.  Once you’ve registered the test and collected your blood sample, you can return your test(s) to our lab via USPS, using the enclosed prepaid address label. We advise that samples be collected in the morning and returned immediately using the labels provided. Please follow the instructions inside your kit to collect your sample for your test. All test kits are delivered to your home and include a prepaid shipping label for you to send your sample to the lab.  You’ll receive an email with a link to your online dashboard when your results are available, which is usually within approx. 3-5 business days after the lab receives your test.  Testing is highly convenient as the test can be self-administered at home, and results are available online within a few days of your sample being received by the lab   WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS TEST? The HbA1c test is recommended for individuals who are at risk for prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. This includes those who are overweight, have a family history of diabetes, or have high blood pressure. The test is also useful for individuals who have already been diagnosed with diabetes and are undergoing treatment, as it allows them to monitor their progress and make adjustments to their treatment plan as needed. IS THERE ANYTHING I NEED TO KNOW BEFORE TAKING THIS TEST? You do NOT need to fast for an HbA1c test. You must be at least 18 years old to use our testing services. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I TAKE THIS TEST? Knowing your HbA1c results allows you to make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed and can help you take control of your health. In those with diabetes the test is done every 6 or 12 months. For those at risk of prediabetes or diabetes, such as those with a family history, we recommend that this test is done once or twice per year. WHAT COULD RESULTS OUT OF RANGE (ABNORMAL) MEAN?  A raised HbA1c test result can indicate prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. In individuals who have already been diagnosed with diabetes, a significantly raised HbA1c test result can indicate poor diabetes management and the need for adjustments to the treatment plan. It's important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the cause of a raised HbA1c test result and discuss any necessary changes to diabetes management. WHAT COULD RESULTS IN RANGE (NORMAL) MEAN? A normal HbA1c test result in a non-diabetic individual confirms that they do not have diabetes. In a diabetic individual, a good HbA1c test result indicates effective diabetes management. However it's important to remember that good HbA1c test results do not eliminate the need for ongoing monitoring and management of diabetes, as it can’t identify if there are also periods of high blood sugars and low blood sugars. If an individual is experiencing symptoms of diabetes, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider, regardless of HbA1c test results. HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY RESULTS? There are several ways to control blood sugar levels, including maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, taking medications as prescribed, and monitoring blood sugar levels regularly. Additionally, stress management techniques and avoiding smoking can also have a positive impact on blood sugar levels.