Randox launches new EQA programme for HbA1c

Randox International Quality Scheme (RIQAS) has announced the next stage of its HbA1c (glycated haemoglobin) EQA programme which will begin on February 4th.

The HbA1c trial uses lyophilised human blood, which is analysed monthly.

Initially, the EQA samples range from four to 14 per cent and cover clinically important decision levels.

Upon being reconstituted, the samples become stabilised at two to eight degrees celsius for three months.

They can then be used for internal quality control purposes.

Patient performances will be compared with that of other laboratories, using the same instruments and methods, in a comprehensive report.

HbA1c is used to evaluate diabetics’ average blood glucose levels over the following six to eight weeks.

According to Randox, elevated HbA1c levels are associated with diabetes complications.

"Different methods of determining HbA1c can produce varying laboratory results, illustrating the importance of EQA in HbA1c measurement. EQA plays a vital role in the harmonisation of HbA1c results worldwide," it continued.

Randox is an international diagnostics company, manufacturing and marketing Biochip Array Technology, clinical chemistry analysers and reagents, quality controls and EQA, environmental diagnostics, recombinant proteins and antibodies worldwide.