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Blood donors in Kansas and Oklahoma have until August 31 to take advantage of free A1C testing offered by the American Red Cross. The testing, available at all Red Cross blood drives and donation centers, provides donors with critical insight into their blood sugar levels and potential diabetes risk.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one in 10 Americans lives with diabetes, and nearly 25% of cases go undiagnosed. Donors will receive their A1C results within two weeks through the Red Cross Blood Donor App or online portal and are encouraged to consult a healthcare provider if results are elevated. The A1C test is in addition to the standard health checks performed at every donation.
The Red Cross is also urging those with type O and type B negative blood to give, as these are in highest demand for patients. To meet nationwide needs, the Red Cross must collect 12,500 blood donations daily.
Appointments can be scheduled at RedCrossBlood.org, via the Blood Donor App, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS. Donors in August will also receive a $15 e-gift card.
