The American Red Cross is urging people to donate blood or platelets in March to help the national blood supply recover from a severe shortage. As a thank-you, successful donors will receive free A1C testing — a screening used to detect prediabetes and diabetes — along with a $15 Amazon gift card during the month.
New Red Cross data shows about one in five blood donors had elevated A1C levels during the program’s first year, highlighting how common prediabetes and diabetes can be, even among generally healthy adults. According to Red Cross medical director Dr. Courtney Lawrence, the screenings help give donors important health information and encourage preventive care.
Donors can make an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS, or visiting the organization’s website. March donations are also part of Red Cross Month, which encourages people to volunteer, give financially, or learn lifesaving skills.
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