Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Feb. 25, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Utah is taking steps to improve access to health care by providing free A1C testing for all successful blood donations throughout March. This test, commonly used to screen for diabetes and prediabetes, empowers donors by offering valuable health insights at no cost.
Diabetes affects 1 in 10 Americans, yet nearly a quarter of those with the condition are undiagnosed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Additionally, one-third of Americans face barriers to regular primary care. The Red Cross’s free A1C screenings aim to address these challenges by equipping donors with critical information to support their health.
This month-long initiative reflects the Red Cross’s long-standing commitment to community health, which also includes disaster relief efforts such as basic disaster health care and mental health support.
“We are proud to offer free A1C testing to all blood donors throughout March as part of our ongoing commitment to health and community well-being,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Ensuring access to essential health screenings like A1C testing not only empowers individuals to better manage their health but also addresses critical gaps in health care access. We’re honored to support our donors and communities in taking proactive steps toward healthier lives.”
Challenges Facing the Blood Supply
Severe winter storms across the U.S. this year have led to nearly 1,000 canceled blood drives, resulting in over 28,000 uncollected blood donations. As the nation’s blood supply faces mounting challenges, the Red Cross of Utah is urging residents to donate blood in the coming weeks to ensure lifesaving blood is available for patients in need.
Donors are encouraged to schedule appointments through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). If immediate appointments are unavailable, donors are urged to schedule for the near future to help stabilize the blood supply. As a thank-you, all donors who give blood, platelets, or plasma from March 1–31 will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card via email. For more details on A1C testing and gift card offers, visit RedCrossBlood.org/March.
Mark Your Calendar for Red Cross Giving Day on March 26
On March 26, the Red Cross invites the community to participate in the 11th annual Red Cross Giving Day. Donations help provide shelter, food, relief supplies, health care, emotional support and financial assistance to individuals and families affected by disasters.
The Red Cross also empowers communities through CPR, first aid and emergency preparedness training programs. These lifesaving skills help create stronger and safer communities. The Red Cross also serves as an unwavering supporter of veterans and military families, offering services such as emergency communication, financial assistance, and resources to support transitions during deployments and homecomings.
Addressing Diabetes with A1C Screenings
According to the CDC, 90% of people with diabetes in the U.S. have Type 2, a condition that develops gradually and can often be prevented or reversed through early intervention. Left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications, including kidney failure, stroke and heart problems.
“Type 2 diabetes develops over years and may not cause obvious symptoms until significant damage has been done,” said Dr. Courtney Lawrence, Medical Director for the Red Cross. “By understanding our health earlier, we can take steps to prevent chronic illnesses, improve quality of life and save lives. Blood donation can now also become part of that health journey.”
Starting March 1, the month-long A1C screening will begin for all successful donations. Donors will receive their test results within one to two weeks through the Red Cross Blood Donor App or online donor portal. If results indicate an elevated A1C level, donors are encouraged to consult their health care provider. This A1C test adds to the range of health insights already offered to donors, including information on pulse, blood pressure, body temperature and hemoglobin levels.
Supporting the Community
Red Cross disaster volunteers and staff frequently respond to home fires, the most common disaster in the country, providing immediate assistance to affected families. Last year, the Red Cross of Utah responded to over 150 home fires, providing aid to more than 800 residents.
“This work is only possible because of our volunteers, community partners and generous donors,” Ruster said. “Together, we bring hope and relief to those in need when disaster strikes.”
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
