SIOUX FALLS The American Red Cross Minnesota and Dakotas Region is helping to strengthen both personal and community health by offering free A1C testing for blood donors in March and equipping individuals and families with resources to prepare for emergencies.
One-third of people lack access to regular primary care in the U.S., where diabetes affects one in 10 people and nearly a quarter of those living with it have been undiagnosed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The free A1C screening aims to help address this gap by empowering blood donors with valuable information to maintain their health and well-being. This new offering is among the longtime work of the Red Cross to support the health of communities, which also includes disaster preparedness and relief efforts.
We want to empower people with valuable health insights while ensuring a strong blood supply for those in need, said Patty Brooks, executive director, American Red Cross serving eastern South Dakota By offering free A1C screening, were giving individuals an opportunity to learn more about their health while making a lifesaving impact.
To see a blood drive listing for eastern South Dakota, visit RedCrossBlood.org, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App or call 1-800-RED CROSS to book a time to give in March and learn more about your health. Additionally, all who come to give blood, platelets or plasma March 1-31 will receive a $10 Amazon.com gift card by email. See RedCrossBlood.org/March for details on both offers.
When families and neighbors have the tools and knowledge to respond in an emergency, they can recover more quickly and support one another, added Brooks.
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