From Diabetes to Sickle Cell—What Your Blood Can Tell You About Your Health

Did you know that donating blood can do more than just save a life? It can also provide crucial health insights. The American Red Cross is now offering free A1C testing—a key diabetes screening—to blood donors. This initiative is especially important for Black Americans. Here’s why.

Diabetes: A Silent Threat in the Black Community

Diabetes isn’t just a statistic—it’s a health crisis, particularly in the Black community. Black Americans are nearly 60 percent more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes and almost twice as likely to die from its complications compared to white Americans.

Why? A combination of factors plays a role:

Limited access to healthcare
Socioeconomic disparities
Chronic stress, including the effects of systemic racism

“We need to shift healthcare to a preventative model, especially in communities where chronic conditions often go unnoticed,” says Dr. Courtney Lawrence, divisional chief medical officer at the American Red Cross.

Unfortunately, about one-third of Americans lack access to regular primary care, a situation expected to worsen. That’s why early detection through A1C testing is critical.

Why A1C Testing Matters

A1C testing measures average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. Unlike a standard blood sugar test, which only gives a snapshot of your current level, the A1C test provides a broader picture of your long-term health.

Early Detection: Prediabetes and early-stage diabetes often have no symptoms. Testing can help catch it before serious complications arise.
Knowledge is Power: If your levels are high, you can take preventative steps—like improving your diet and exercise—to reduce your risk of full-blown diabetes.

“Diabetes is the eighth leading cause of death in the United States,” Dr. Lawrence notes. “For Black Americans, the risk is even higher.”

Taking Control: Steps to Protect Your Health

If your test results indicate a potential health concern, don’t wait—share them with your doctor. In the meantime, consider these lifestyle changes:

Eat Smart: Focus on lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains. Cut back on sugary drinks and processed foods.
Get Active: Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Need affordable healthcare? Visit www.findhelp.org for resources.

Beyond Diabetes: The Importance of Sickle Cell Trait Screening

The American Red Cross is also offering sickle cell trait screening—another critical service for Black Americans.

What Is Sickle Cell Trait?

Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects red blood cells, causing pain, anemia, and other complications.

Sickle cell trait means you carry one copy of the sickle cell gene. You usually don’t have symptoms, but you can pass the gene to your children.
Sickle cell disease occurs when both parents pass on the gene, leading to serious health issues.

A simple blood test can determine your sickle cell trait status.

“If both parents have the trait, there’s a 25 percent chance their child will have sickle cell disease,” Dr. Lawrence explains.

The Power of Black Blood Donors

Blood from Black donors is especially vital for sickle cell patients, who often need regular transfusions to manage their condition.

Black donors are nearly three times more likely to provide the best match for patients with sickle cell disease.
Your donation could help save a life—maybe even within your own community.

How You Can Take Action

Donate Blood & Get Screened: Schedule an appointment with the Red Cross for free A1C and sickle cell trait testing.
Understand Your Results: If your results indicate a risk, don’t panic—talk to your doctor for guidance.
Prioritize Preventative Care: Regular checkups, healthy eating, and exercise can help manage diabetes and prevent complications.
Plan for the Future: If you have sickle cell trait, discuss family planning options with your partner and doctor.
Spread the Word: Share this information with family and friends to raise awareness and improve community health.

Your Blood Tells a Story—Listen to It

For Black Americans, health disparities are real, but we are not powerless. By donating blood, getting screened, and taking control of our health, we can change the narrative—for ourselves, our families, and future generations.

Schedule your donation today and take charge of your health. Your blood holds the key to a healthier future.

Ready to make a difference? Visit RedCrossBlood.org to schedule your free A1C and sickle cell trait screening today.