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Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with 24-Hour Urine Collection for Creatinine Clearance

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months and checks how well your kidneys filter waste from your urine.

Quick summary

["Helps monitor diabetes management and kidney function together."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60450-4
Short code
HEDIS 2011 PPC-C
Synonyms
HEDIS 2011 PPC-C
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why HbA1c is Used in Diabetes Care

HbA1c reflects your blood sugar control over time, giving doctors a clearer picture than daily glucose checks alone. It’s a key tool for adjusting diabetes treatments and preventing long-term complications like nerve damage or kidney issues.

Understanding Your Urine Creatinine Test

The urine creatinine test assesses how well your kidneys remove waste by measuring creatinine levels. This helps determine your kidney function and whether your diabetes medications are affecting your blood flow to the kidneys.

How This Test Works Together

Your blood is tested for HbA1c to track diabetes management, while a 24-hour urine sample checks creatinine clearance. Together, they provide a fuller picture of both your blood sugar control and kidney health, especially in people with diabetes.

What to Expect Before the Test

For HbA1c: No special prep is needed. For urine creatinine: Collect all urine for 24 hours (start and end with your first morning urine). Drink usual fluids but avoid diuretics (like caffeine) that could alter results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: HbA1c and Kidney Function Link

Short name

HbA1c + Urine Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

How does HbA1c relate to kidney health?
High HbA1c levels (poor blood sugar control) can strain kidneys over time, increasing risk of kidney disease. The urine creatinine test helps identify if your kidneys are filtering waste efficiently, especially important for people with diabetes.
What if my urine creatinine is high?
High urine creatinine may signal kidney problems, even if you don’t have symptoms. Your doctor will discuss next steps, which could include more kidney tests or adjustments to your diabetes or blood pressure medications.
Can diet affect these tests?
Yes—high-protein foods or certain supplements (like vitamin C) can raise creatinine levels. Stick to your usual diet during urine collection, and avoid extreme changes to avoid misleading results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy