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This March, blood, platelet, and plasma donors in the Poconos can receive free A1C testing through the American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania. The initiative aims to help donors identify if they are pre-diabetic or have diabetes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), diabetes affects one in ten Americans, with many cases undiagnosed. The Red Cross hopes to bridge healthcare access by providing this valuable health information.
Dr. Pampee Young, chief medical officer for the American Red Cross, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Advancing community health is a natural extension of the Red Cross mission to alleviate human suffering." The A1C test results will be available within one to two weeks through the Red Cross Blood Donor App or online portal. Donors are encouraged to consult their healthcare providers if their A1C levels are elevated.
In addition to the A1C testing, donors will receive a $10 Amazon.com gift card as a token of appreciation. The Red Cross continues to support community health through various initiatives, including disaster relief efforts and basic health services. For more details on donation locations and times, visit redcross.org.