Image courtesy of the Red Cross

The American Red Cross is urging donors to give blood in March as the nation recovers from a severe shortage, while also offering free A1C testing to help identify undiagnosed prediabetes and diabetes.

New Red Cross data shows 1 in 5 blood donors has elevated A1C levels, based on screenings provided to more than 920,000 donors in 2025. Of those with elevated levels, 80% fell within the prediabetes range. The A1C test measures average blood sugar levels over the past three months and does not require fasting.

Health officials say early detection can prevent serious complications and reduce long-term medical costs. Donors who give blood, platelets or plasma March 1–31 will receive one free A1C screening result for the year and a $15 Amazon gift card by email.

Appointments can be scheduled through RedCrossBlood.org, the Red Cross Blood Donor App or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.