Red Cross to Offer Free A1C Testing in November
The American Red Cross will provide free diabetes screenings for blood donors throughout the month of November 2026.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Diabetes
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Throughout November 2026, the American Red Cross will offer free A1C blood glucose screenings to donors as part of an initiative coinciding with National Diabetes Month. This program aims to identify concerning blood sugar levels and encourage proactive diabetes awareness across the United States.
Why it matters
The screenings help donors track their average blood glucose levels over several months, a vital metric for identifying potential prediabetes or diabetes cases early. By integrating this service with blood collection, the organization facilitates increased public health awareness during a month dedicated to diabetes prevention.
An A1C level of 6.5 percent or higher confirms a diabetes diagnosis, while the 5.8 percent to 6.4 percent range indicates prediabetes. Normal readings are classified as 5.7 percent or lower.
The players
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides emergency assistance, disaster relief, and blood collection services throughout the United States.
The details
Donors interested in the screening can schedule appointments via the official website, phone, or mobile app, and are advised not to fast before their visit to ensure accurate testing. Those who donate blood by November 22, 2026, are also eligible to receive up to $20 in gift cards.
Timeline
The free A1C testing initiative takes place throughout November 2026.
Donors have until November 22, 2026, to qualify for the $20 gift card incentive.
Health Landscape
The American Red Cross screening initiative follows the pattern established by National Diabetes Month to raise awareness about disease prevention.
Donors receive a health report that identifies if their blood glucose levels are in the normal, prediabetic, or diabetic range. Because individuals are encouraged not to fast, they can participate in the testing during their regular daily schedule.
The takeaway
Maintaining knowledge of your A1C levels is a powerful tool for catching metabolic issues before they advance to clinical diabetes. Consider scheduling a blood donation this month to receive your screening and contribute to the national blood supply.
Further reading
For more information on monitoring your health, visit our Diabetes section.
More information
To book your appointment, visit the Red Cross blood donation scheduling portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by FOX 10.
Live Poll
Would you be more likely to donate blood if you received a free health screening?
