HbA1c measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months, making it a key marker for diabetes management and overall blood sugar control. Diet and lifestyle play a significant role in affecting HbA1c levels. Consuming a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables while avoiding excessive sugar and processed foods can help maintain healthy HbA1c levels. Regular physical activity, stress management, and proper sleep also contribute to keeping blood sugar levels stable. Regular testing of HbA1c helps monitor long-term glucose control, especially for those with diabetes or at risk of developing it.

Serum urea levels are a key indicator of kidney function, reflecting how well the kidneys are filtering waste from the blood. Urea is a byproduct of protein metabolism, and its concentration in the blood can reveal potential issues with kidney health. Normal serum urea levels generally range between 2.5 to 7.1 mmol/L, although these values may vary slightly depending on the laboratory. Elevated urea levels could indicate impaired kidney function, dehydration, or high protein intake, while low levels may suggest liver disease or malnutrition. A urea test is commonly paired with creatinine levels for a comprehensive kidney function assessment.

The Prothrombin Time (PT) test measures how long it takes for blood to clot. This test is crucial for assessing clotting disorders and ensuring proper coagulation, especially in people taking blood-thinning medications like warfarin or those with liver disease. A prolonged PT could indicate a bleeding disorder or vitamin K deficiency. PT is used to diagnose conditions like hemophilia or monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulants, ensuring patients are within a safe range for preventing blood clots without increasing the risk of excessive bleeding.

A serum folate test measures the level of folate (vitamin B9) in your blood. Folate is essential for red blood cell production, DNA synthesis, and overall cellular function. This test is often recommended when doctors suspect folate deficiency, which can cause symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or anemia. It is particularly important for pregnant women to ensure healthy fetal development. Serum folate tests are also used to monitor conditions like malnutrition, malabsorption disorders, or chronic alcohol consumption, where folate absorption may be impaired.