Your health matters, and so do the lives you touch. With November marking Diabetes Awareness Month, Vitalant is spotlighting a condition that affects over 38 million Americans — and another 96 million who have prediabetes. Many people don’t even know they’re at risk.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose), which serves as the body’s main source of energy. If you have diabetes, your body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use it effectively. There are two main types:
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Type 1 diabetes, typically diagnosed in children or young adults, is an autoimmune condition where the body stops producing insulin.
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Type 2 diabetes, the more common type, often develops in adulthood and is linked to lifestyle and genetic factors.
Prediabetes is when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. The good news? Prediabetes can be reversible with lifestyle changes like healthier eating, regular activity and weight management.
Why A1C Testing Matters
Your A1C level reflects your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months. It’s a valuable tool for diagnosing diabetes and monitoring how well it’s being managed.
Here’s what your A1C level might mean:
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Below 5.7%: Normal
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5.7%-6.4%: Prediabetes
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6.5% or above: Diabetes
The earlier you catch elevated blood sugar levels, the more options you have to prevent or manage diabetes effectively. Talk with your doctor about getting a blood test to learn your A1C and better understand your blood sugar health
Can People with Diabetes Donate Blood?
In many cases, yes! If your diabetes is well-controlled — through lifestyle changes, oral medication or insulin — you may still be eligible to donate. However, you should:
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Check with your healthcare provider first.
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Ensure your blood sugar is within a stable range.
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Avoid donating during major medication or dosage changes.
As with any donor, eligibility is determined at the time of your appointment through a brief health screening. It only takes a few minutes and helps ensure that donating is safe for you and those receiving your generous gift!
What Disqualifies You from Donating Blood?
While most people are eligible to donate blood, there are some situations that may temporarily or permanently prevent you from donating. These guidelines exist to keep both donors and patients safe. You may be ineligible at the time of your donation because you:
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Are feeling unwell or have a fever.
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Have certain medical conditions, like uncontrolled high blood pressure or heart disease.
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Are currently on antibiotics for an active infection.
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Have recently received a blood transfusion, organ transplant, or certain vaccines.
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Have traveled to or lived in areas with a high risk of malaria or other diseases.
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Are under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of donation.
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Have a low hemoglobin (iron) level.
In some cases, these restrictions are only temporary, so if you’re unsure, our donor eligibility team will be happy to answer your questions and help determine when you can safely donate. Give them a call at 877-25-VITAL.
What Are the Blood Donation Requirements?
Donating blood is easier than you might think, and most people meet the basic requirements. To be eligible, you’ll need to:
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Be at least 16 years old (or 17 in some states). Donors under 18 may need parental consent.
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Weigh at least 110 pounds.
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Be in good general health, feeling well the day of your donation.
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Bring your ID with you, something with your name and one of the following: date of birth, donor ID number or your photo.
Ready to make an impact? Give blood and take a step toward better health — for yourself and others.
SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY