Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

LifeSouth blood donors can discover their risk for diabetes through a unique opportunity. LifeSouth Community Blood Centers’ offers complimentary A1c testing to all blood donors now through August 31, giving donors the chance to learn if they may have pre-diabetes or diabetes, and more about their health.

The A1c test measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2 to 3 months, alerting individuals to their diabetes risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 3 adults have prediabetes, and more than 8 in 10 people are unaware. Early detection through A1c testing and discussing results with a primary care provider can help mitigate serious health complications such as heart disease, kidney failure and vision loss.

“Offering hemoglobin A1c testing to all blood donors gives us a chance to help our communities take charge of their health and learn if they are at risk for prediabetes and diabetes,” said Dr. Chris Lough, Vice President of Medical Services at LifeSouth Community Blood Centers. “Early detection is key, and knowing your A1c can help you learn more about your health and make early changes to help prevent disease progression.”

Blood donors can monitor their test results with each donation through the LifeSouth donor portal.

LifeSouth remains committed to the wellbeing of blood donors and the communities they serve. By donating blood with LifeSouth, donors help patients in local hospitals.

To find a blood drive or donor center, visit lifesouth.org. In addition to A1c testing, all blood donors receive a mini physical including cholesterol screen, blood pressure, pulse, hemoglobin level and temperature.