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Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with 24-hour urine collection for albumin excretion rate (AER)

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

This test measures your long-term blood sugar control and checks for kidney function by analyzing urine for small protein levels.

Quick summary

["HbA1c helps track diabetes management, while urine albumin detects early kidney damage from high blood sugar."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
99484-8
Short code
OB Midwife Procedure note
Synonyms
OB Midwife Procedure note
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
obstetrics-midwife
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 This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. It helps monitor both your blood sugar levels over time and whether your kidneys are handling protein properly.

What to Expect Before the Test

For the HbA1c, no special preparation is needed. For the urine test, you’ll collect all urine over a 24-hour period in a container provided by your lab. Drink plenty of water to help with urine flow, but avoid foods that might affect protein levels (like certain supplements).

What the Test Results Mean

The HbA1c result reflects your average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months. The urine test measures how much albumin (a protein) appears in your urine, which can indicate kidney strain from chronic high blood sugar.

Common Conditions Linked to These Results

High HbA1c levels (typically ≥6.5%) suggest poor diabetes control, while elevated urine albumin (above normal thresholds) may signal early kidney disease. Both conditions often require lifestyle adjustments or medical interventions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: Elevated HbA1c (>6.5%) indicates uncontrolled diabetes, increasing risks for heart disease, nerve damage, or vision problems. Persistent urine albumin in the urine may signal diabetic nephropathy, where kidney function gradually declines due to diabetes.

Frequently asked questions

What does an abnormal HbA1c result mean?
An abnormal HbA1c result suggests your blood sugar levels have been consistently high, which can damage blood vessels and organs over time. This may mean your diabetes isn’t well-managed, and your provider will likely recommend adjustments to your treatment plan, such as diet, exercise, or medication.
Why is urine albumin checked in this test?
Urine albumin helps detect early kidney damage caused by high blood sugar. Even mild protein loss in urine can signal kidney strain, which is common in diabetes but can also occur in other conditions like high blood pressure. Early detection allows for timely interventions to protect kidney health.
Can I eat or drink anything before the urine collection?
Yes, you can eat and drink normally, but avoid foods or supplements that might affect protein levels in your urine (like high-protein diets or certain supplements). Drink water as usual to help with urine flow, but don’t delay the collection time—follow your lab’s instructions precisely.
  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