When Ben, a blood donor from Vermont, rolled up his sleeve to donate blood last August, he never expected to receive a message from Dr. Jorge Rios, medical director of the American Red Cross, alerting him that he had elevated A1C levels ─ a potential sign of prediabetes or diabetes. These unexpected results empowered Ben to seek help from his doctor to better understand his own health.

“Thanks to this result, I contacted my doctor and am undergoing additional tests. I’m grateful to you all for providing an affordable service and for ─ in practical terms ─ probably adding years to my life by helping me get a diagnosis months or even years earlier than I would have otherwise,” Ben shared.

New American Red Cross data shows Ben isn’t alone. 1 in 5 blood donors have elevated A1C levels based on the first year of free A1C screening offered by the Red Cross ─ a worrying statistic about just how prevalent prediabetes and diabetes are even among adults in generally good health.

This March, the American Red Cross is once again offering free A1C testing to everyone who successfully donates blood, platelets or plasma. Learn more here. To schedule a blood donation appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App or call 1-800-RED CROSS ((800-733-2767). Donors can find their A1C test results within one to two weeks in the Red Cross Blood Donor App or on our donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org.

Key Tool for Early Detection

Millions of U.S. adults are living with undiagnosed prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes, which are often preventable and reversible. These conditions often develop silently. If left untreated, they can lead to serious health complications such as stroke and heart disease. Dr. Rios explains that the test “gives people the opportunity to learn about their blood sugar levels without the inconvenience of a doctor’s visit ─ so that, if needed, they can make lifestyle changes or begin treatment that can help them live healthier lives.”

He adds that this test is especially valuable for communities that face higher rates of diabetes, including the Hispanic community.

“A key advantage is that test results will be available directly through the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, making it easy for people to access their information. And if their levels are high, the Red Cross will notify them within one to two weeks,” Dr. Rios stated.

People With Diabetes or Prediabetes Are Welcome to Donate Blood

The Red Cross emphasizes that diabetes ─ and medications such as metformin or GLP‑1 treatments ─ does not prevent someone from donating blood as long as their condition is well controlled.

If you have diabetes or prediabetes and plan to donate, keep these points in mind:

• Donating blood does not raise or lower blood sugar levels.
• Most common diabetes medications do not affect eligibility.
• Be sure to feel well on the day of your donation, eat beforehand and stay hydrated.

Make Your March Appointment

Visit RedCrossBlood.org to schedule your donation and help save lives ─ while gaining valuable information about your own health. In addition to receiving a free A1C screening during the month of March, donors will also get a $15 Amazon e-gift card via email.

Donating this March supports Red Cross Month, a nationwide effort inviting people to step up when help can’t wait. You can also take part by making a financial donation, volunteering or signing up for a lifesaving skills course.