Complimentary testing empowers communities to understand their diabetes risk through blood donation | JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – November 5, 2025 – In recognition of National Diabetes Awareness Month, LifeSouth Community Blood Centers continues its commitment to community health by offering complimentary Hemoglobin A1c testing to all blood donors. The initiative helps donors take charge of their well-being by learning more about their risk for diabetes and prediabetes – conditions that affect millions of Americans.
The A1c test measures average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months, providing valuable insight into a person’s long-term glucose control. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in three adults has prediabetes, and more than eight in 10 people are unaware. Early detection can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes and reduce the risk of serious health complications, including heart disease, kidney disease and vision loss.
“National Diabetes Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that small steps toward awareness can make a big difference in health outcomes,” said Dr. Chris Lough, Vice President of Medical Services at LifeSouth Community Blood Centers. “Through A1c testing, we’re helping our donors access valuable health information and encouraging early conversations with their healthcare providers. Knowing your A1c level can help donors take charge of their health and make proactive changes.”
LifeSouth introduced the complimentary A1c testing program in the summer of 2025, and it continues to be a vital part of the donor experience. Test results are available to donors through the LifeSouth Donor Portal, allowing them to track their health over time with each donation. Those who are living with diabetes are able to donate blood, if their diabetes is regulated.
In addition to A1c testing, all LifeSouth donors receive a mini physical at each visit, which includes measurements for cholesterol, blood pressure, pulse, hemoglobin levels and temperature. Every donation not only supports the donor’s health journey, but it also helps save lives at local hospitals including Baptist Medical Center Beaches, Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, Baptist Medical Center Nassau, Baptist Medical Center South, HCA Florida Memorial Hospital, HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital, UF Health Jacksonville, UF Health North and Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Blood donated with LifeSouth directly helps patients at these hospitals.
To learn more, find a blood drive or donor center, visit lifesouth.org.
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About LifeSouth Community Blood Centers:
LifeSouth is a non-profit community blood bank serving more than 150 hospitals in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Tennessee. LifeSouth is committed to meeting the blood supply needs of hospitals and their patients by providing the highest quality blood components and services. The LifeSouth team is dedicated to making sure the blood is there when a patient is in need. To learn more, visit LifeSouth.org or donatingblood.org.