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Hemoglobin (Hb) A1c Blood Test

The Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test is the gold standard for monitoring long-term blood sugar control. Unlike a standard glucose test that provides a single snapshot in time, the A1c test reflects your average blood glucose levels over the past 2–3 months.

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$5.99USD

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Sample
Whole Blood
Typical turnaround
1-4
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13 listings

13 matches · USD

Ubertest

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test

Listed price $5.99
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Fees & listing detailsRecorded Mar 10, 2026
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$0.00
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Jason Health

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

Listed price $8.00
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Fees & listing detailsRecorded Mar 10, 2026
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$0.00
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$18.00
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Grass Roots Labs

Hemoglobin A1c

Listed price $18.89
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Fees & listing detailsRecorded Mar 10, 2026
Additional listing fee
$0.00
Blood draw
$4.00
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$6.00

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Discountedlabs

A1c- Hemoglobin (Hgb)

Listed price $21.00
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Fees & listing detailsRecorded Mar 10, 2026
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$0.00
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$8.00
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Ulta Lab test

A1c Test Most Popular

Listed price $22.95
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Fees & listing detailsRecorded Mar 10, 2026
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$0.00
Blood draw
$12.95
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Not provided

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This observation is older than 7 days.

Prices shown are listed test prices, not checkout totals. Expand a listing for supplied fees and its observation date. Check included measurements, collection requirements, and the performing lab before ordering.

Understand before you decide

The test, explained.

Overview

The Hemoglobin (Hb) A1c test is a simple, non-fasting blood test that provides a comprehensive picture of your average blood sugar levels over the past 90 days. It is the most reliable method for diagnosing diabetes and assessing how well your glucose is being managed over time.

About this test

The Hemoglobin A1c test measures the percentage of hemoglobin—the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells—that is coated with sugar (glycated). Because red blood cells live for approximately 120 days, the A1c test provides a weighted average of your blood sugar levels during that period. **What this test tells you:** * **Diagnostic Power:** Identifies prediabetes and diabetes risk before symptoms appear. * **Treatment Tracking:** For those with diabetes, it quantifies how well your treatment plan is working over time. * **Cardiovascular Insight:** Elevated A1c is correlated with increased heart health risks. **General Interpretation Guide:** * **Normal:** < 5.7% * **Prediabetes:** 5.7% – 6.4% * **Diabetes:** ≥ 6.5% *(Note: Reference ranges may vary by lab. Always review results with a healthcare provider.)* **Important Considerations:** HbA1c is an estimate based on red blood cell turnover. Results can be less reliable if you have conditions that alter red blood cell lifespan, such as anemia, recent blood loss, kidney disease, or hemoglobin variants. in these cases, discuss alternative testing methods (like fructosamine or CGM) with your provider.

When to discuss this test

Consider a Hemoglobin A1c test if you:

  • Have risk factors for diabetes (overweight, family history, high blood pressure, sedentary lifestyle).
  • Are experiencing symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, or blurred vision.
  • Have been diagnosed with prediabetes and need to track progression (recommended every 1–2 years).
  • Are managing diagnosed diabetes and need to monitor control (recommended every 3–6 months).
  • Recently changed your diet or medication and want to measure the long-term impact.

Who may benefit

  • Preventive Screeners: Adults over 45, or younger adults with risk factors, seeking to rule out prediabetes.
  • Diabetic Patients: Individuals monitoring the effectiveness of their diet, exercise, and medication regimen.
  • Biohackers & Athletes: Individuals optimizing metabolic health to improve energy levels and longevity.

How this test is used

The HbA1c test is the primary tool for the diagnosis and management of:

  • Type 2 Diabetes: Confirming chronic hyperglycemia (A1c ≥ 6.5%).
  • Prediabetes: Identifying early insulin resistance (A1c 5.7% – 6.4%) to allow for lifestyle intervention.
  • Glycemic Control: Assessing how well a treatment plan is working to keep blood sugar within a target range.

Before your appointment

Plan your visit.

Fasting
Follow retailer guidance

How to prepare

  • No fasting is required. You may eat and drink normally before the test.
  • Biotin Warning: If you are taking high-dose Biotin (Vitamin B7) supplements (often found in hair/skin/nail formulas), wait at least 72 hours after your last dose before testing, as it can interfere with accurate results.
  • Continue taking other regular medications unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider.

Important considerations

Interference Factors: Results may be misleading if you have conditions affecting red blood cells, such as sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, recent blood transfusions, or pregnancy. Supplement Note: High doses of Vitamin C, E, or Biotin can sometimes affect the assay. Always consult your healthcare provider to interpret results in the context of your full medical history.

Follow the instructions from your retailer and clinician. Information on this page is educational and does not replace individual medical advice.

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For a closer look

Sources & further reading.

Further reading

A1c Variability Linked to Dementia Risk

Recent research published in 2024 and 2025 has highlighted that it is not just the average A1c level that matters, but also the stability of those levels over time. A study of over 170,000 individuals found that high variability in A1c levels (frequent swings between high and low) is independently associated with an increased risk of dementia.

Sources

  • Mayo Clinic: Hemoglobin A1c test overview, preparation, and interpretation.
  • American Diabetes Association (ADA): Standards of Care in Diabetes (2025).
  • PubMed: Recent studies on Glycemic Variability and Cognitive Decline (2024-2025).