What are Diabetes and Glycosylated Haemoglobin?

Diabetes is a condition when you have too much or too little sugar (glucose) in your bloodstream, and your body is not able to regulate it.

Haemoglobin is the protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body, while glucose is a type of sugar. Glycosylated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) is a combination of glucose, that is not used for energy production, with the haemoglobin in red blood cells in a process known as glycosylation. The more glucose there is in the bloodstream, the higher the level of HbA1c and the greater the risk of physical damage and therefore health problems.

Elevated levels indicate higher rates of blood sugar, which may, in turn, indicate diabetes or poorly controlled diabetes if a diagnosis has already been made. Symptoms associated with diabetes include frequent urination or urine infections, an increase in thirst or hunger, and unexplained weight loss.

As red blood cells have a four-month lifespan, the Better2Know HbA1c home test gives an idea of the average blood sugar over this time period rather than in response to short term changes. In this way, people with diabetes can periodically check how well they are controlling their blood sugar.

Why should I consider a glycosylated haemoglobin test?

If you are worried about unexplained symptoms or have already been diagnosed with diabetes type 1 or 2 and are following a diet, exercise or drug programme to control this, a Better2Know HbA1c home test will let you know how you are doing.

What is the Better2Know home testing process?

Your HbA1c home test will use a single blood sample for swift, efficient analysis. The Better2Know home testing kit includes a pathology form, a free-to-use envelope, a purple-topped collection tube, three-finger prick lancets, sample collection guide, and skin wipes. Please follow the instructions on collecting your sample carefully. Once you have taken your sample, you can send it directly to Better2Know's certified, UK laboratory.

When will my home testing kit arrive?

Your home testing kit will be sent via first-class post once we have processed your order. If you purchase your Glycosylated Haemoglobin home test before 4 pm, Monday to Friday, Better2Know will dispatch your kit on the very same day.

How will I receive my test results?

Your confidential results will be available within one working day after our accredited laboratory receives your blood sample. You can view them at any time using Better2Know’s secure, online patient area. Our trained Patient Services team will also contact you personally once all your results are ready to report.

What should I do with my results?

If your Glycosylated Haemoglobin results come back as outside the normal range Better2Know can arrange a consultation with one of our many skilled doctors across the UK. Your private doctor will explain your result in more detail and suggest treatment or management options moving forward.

How can I order my home test?

To order your Glycosylated Haemoglobin home test today, call Better2Know's dedicated advisors on the number above. They will answer your additional queries and process your order. Alternatively, you can purchase your home testing kit now by selecting the blue, ‘Add to Basket’ button on this page and proceeding to the checkout.