11/24/2025
Diabetes affects millions of Americans and is a leading cause of serious complications, including kidney failure, lower-limb amputations, adult blindness and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Yet many people remain unaware they’re at risk.
Genetics, lifestyle habits and limited access to healthcare all contribute to this growing health crisis. Diabetes remains a leading cause of kidney failure, lower-limb amputations and adult blindness — and adults with diabetes face twice the risk of heart disease and stroke compared to those without it.
Since March, the Red Cross has provided approximately 550,000 A1C screenings, notifying 145,000 individuals about concerning results. About 1 in 5 donors tested had results in the prediabetic or diabetic range—clear evidence that early awareness can save lives.
Make sure to take the right steps in care and prevention.