HbA1c Plus Haemoglobin Variants
True average glucose control, even when haemoglobin varies.
This test provides an accurate picture of your average blood glucose over the preceding two to three months, and is particularly valuable for people whose haemoglobin structure may affect the reliability of standard HbA1c measurement. It is suited to anyone being investigated for, or monitored for, diabetes, and to individuals of African, Mediterranean, South Asian, or Southeast Asian heritage where inherited haemoglobin variants are more common.
The analysis is performed using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), a technique that separates and quantifies haemoglobin species with high precision. This same method detects and identifies common haemoglobin variants, so the reported HbA1c is not falsely skewed by an abnormal haemoglobin.
What is measured
- Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c): reflects average blood glucose over the previous 8 to 12 weeks and is the cornerstone of diabetes diagnosis and long term monitoring.
- Haemoglobin variant detection and identification: screens for and characterises abnormal haemoglobins such as HbS, HbC, HbD, HbE, and HbF, which can interfere with some HbA1c methods.
- Estimated average glucose (eAG): a derived value that translates your HbA1c into an everyday glucose concentration for easier interpretation.
Why it matters
An HbA1c result that is misleading because of an undetected haemoglobin variant can lead to inappropriate treatment decisions. By combining accurate HbA1c measurement with variant detection in a single HPLC analysis, this test gives you and your clinician a result you can trust, supporting safer diagnosis, more reliable monitoring, and better informed diabetes care.
- Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c)
- Estimated average glucose (eAG)
- Haemoglobin A (HbA)
- Haemoglobin A2 (HbA2)
- Haemoglobin F (HbF)
- Haemoglobin S (HbS)
- Haemoglobin C (HbC)
- Haemoglobin D (HbD)
- Haemoglobin E (HbE)
- Other haemoglobin variants (as detected)
No special preparation required.
For blood tests, we recommend drinking plenty of water beforehand to ensure smooth sample collection. If you are taking any regular medication, continue to do so unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
Important Clinical Information:
This test is a screening tool to monitor and support your overall health. It does not replace your GP or Consultant.
Always discuss your test results, especially any abnormal results, with your GP, who can interpret them in the context of your medical history and overall health.
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