This gold standard blood test provides vital insights for those who are either concerned about their diabetes risk or looking to monitor their existing condition, delivering essential information on average blood glucose levels over a 10-12-week period.

What is this test?

Many people in the world are now pre-diabetic and diabetic. This blood test is the gold standard test to assess if you are at risk of developing diabetes (pre-diabetes). It measures the average blood glucose levels over a 10–12-week period. If you already have a diagnosis of diabetes it will help you monitor how well you are controlling your diabetes.

Who is this test for?

Test recommended for:

Anyone worried that their lifestyle may be putting them at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It is also suitable for those with type 2 diabetes who want to monitor their condition.

Test not recommended for:

Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding due to the changes in hormones and other factors that can affect their results. If you have not yet been diagnosed and are showing symptoms of diabetes, you should visit your GP. The main symptoms of type 2 diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, nausea, blurry vision and slow-healing wounds.

Useful Information:

In general, it is recommended that people with diabetes get an HbA1c test at least once a year, although some people may need to be tested more often. If left untreated, type 2 diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as heart disease, kidney damage and nerve damage. Fortunately, type 2 diabetes is a manageable condition.

Men aged over 45 would be advised to also check their PSA (prostate specific antigen) if their erectile performance diminishes.

Dr Toby Dean

BA (Hons) MBBS MRCGP