Donate Blood, Get a Free A1C Test — and Take Control of Your Health

Rebecca Guldberg
Oct 26
3 min read

This November, in honor of Diabetes Awareness Month 2025, the American Red Cross is inviting donors to do something extraordinary: save a life and learn more about their own health at the same time. Throughout the month, blood donors will receive a free A1C screening, a quick, non-invasive test that measures average blood sugar levels over the past three months.

According to the Red Cross, past testing revealed that about one in five donors had A1C levels in the prediabetic or diabetic range — and many of them had no idea they were at risk.

“Our donors aren’t just saving lives—they’re learning about their own health in the process,” said Dr. Baia Lasky, Medical Director for the American Red Cross. “We want to empower people with knowledge that can truly make a difference.”

Why This Free A1C Screening Matters

Diabetes is one of the most common and fastest-growing chronic diseases in the U.S., affecting more than 38 million Americans. Another 97 million have prediabetes—a warning sign that blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetes range.Unfortunately, most people with prediabetes don’t know they have it. Symptoms can be subtle or nonexistent for years.

That’s what makes this free A1C test so valuable. It provides a clear picture of your blood sugar trends, giving you and your doctor the information needed to act early—through diet, exercise, or medical treatment—before complications develop.

How the Red Cross Blood Donor A1C Screening Works

When you donate blood in November:

You automatically receive a free A1C test — no extra appointment or blood draw required.
The result measures your average blood glucose over the past 90 days.
Results are sent securely through your Red Cross donor account or email notification within a few days.
If your result is high, you can share it with your healthcare provider for follow-up testing or lifestyle guidance.

It’s a simple addition to your blood donation visit — but one that could alert you to a health condition long before symptoms appear.

Early Detection = Early Prevention

Catching elevated blood sugar early is one of the most powerful tools in diabetes prevention. The earlier someone discovers prediabetes, the more effective lifestyle changes can be in reversing or delaying type 2 diabetes.

Studies show that maintaining a healthy weight, eating nutrient-dense foods, and incorporating regular exercise can cut diabetes risk by more than 50%. By combining that knowledge with a free A1C screening, donors can take proactive steps toward long-term health.

A Win-Win for Everyone

Every blood donation helps patients fighting trauma, cancer, surgery complications, and chronic illnesses. But now, it’s also helping donors protect their health.This campaign bridges two vital missions—saving lives through blood donation and improving lives through early diabetes detection.

By spending just an hour donating blood, you could walk away with information that helps you make better decisions for your future.

How to Schedule Your Free A1C Blood Donor Appointment

Visit redcrossblood.org
Enter your ZIP code to find a local donation center or community drive
Schedule your appointment during Diabetes Awareness Month 2025
Donate blood and receive your free A1C screening results within a few days

Appointments fill quickly in November, so it’s best to book early.

The Bottom Line

Your blood has always had the power to save lives — now it can also help safeguard your own. This Red Cross free A1C testing program is more than a health perk; it’s a chance to catch diabetes early and take control before complications arise.

About Direct Diabetes

Direct Diabetes has been helping people with diabetes for nearly 30 years by mailing the supplies they need directly to their home, and helping them avoid the hassle of having to go to a pharmacy. From Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) to insulin pumps and testing supplies, our goal is to take the stress out of managing diabetes so patients can focus on living healthier, fuller lives. We work directly with doctors and insurance companies to make the process simple and affordable.

📞 Contact Us: 480-998-5551

🌐 Website: DirectDiabetes.com

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This content is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about any questions or concerns regarding your health or treatment options.