The "Diabetes Screen" test package is a focused health check designed to assess your blood glucose control over a period of time. This test is crucial for the detection and management of diabetes, a condition characterised by elevated levels of sugar in the blood, which can lead to serious health complications if not managed properly.

HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin):

• HbA1c: This test measures the average blood glucose concentration over the past two to three months. It works by quantifying the percentage of haemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells, that has glucose attached to it. An elevated HbA1c level indicates that your blood sugar has been higher than normal, which may suggest a diagnosis of prediabetes or diabetes, or may mean that your diabetes is not well-controlled if you have already been diagnosed.

The HbA1c test is a vital component of diabetes management, as it helps to provide a long-term view of how well blood sugar is being controlled and can guide therapy adjustments. Unlike daily blood glucose monitoring, the HbA1c test can give a picture of glycaemic control over a period of time and is less affected by short-term fluctuations due to stress, exercise, or food intake.

Interpreting your HbA1c level can help you and your healthcare provider make important decisions about your lifestyle, diet, and medications to reduce your risk of diabetes-related complications such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney failure, and vision problems.

Regular monitoring of HbA1c is recommended for those with diabetes or prediabetes. For those at risk or who have a family history of diabetes, this screening can be instrumental in early detection and initiating interventions to maintain a healthy lifestyle.