EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The City of El Paso Department of Public Health (DPH) is offering free A1C testing to the community on “Take Charge Tuesdays” to help prevent and manage diabetes.
The A1C screenings, for adults 18 and older, will be held every Tuesday in February, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the following locations:
- Feb. 3: Chamizal Community Center, 2119 Cypress
- Feb. 10:Galatzan Recreation Center, 650 Wallenberg
- Feb. 17:Marty Robbins Recreation Center, 11620 Vista del Sol
- Feb. 24:Rae Gilmore Recreation Center, 8501 Diana
The A1C test measures average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months, according to the DPH. The test helps identify prediabetes or diabetes, track how the treatment is working and supports early action to reduce the risk of long-term complications, such as heart disease, kidney disease or nerve damage.
The screening is recommended for adults 45 years and older, and for anyone with risk factors for diabetes, according to DPH. While diabetes often has no symptoms, possible warning signs may include:
- Fatigue
- Excessive thirst or urination
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blurred vision
If your A1C testing results indicate prediabetes, you can take early action with lifestyle changes that may help reverse prediabetes and lessen the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. If your test results show that you have diabetes, a primary care provider can assist in creating a plan to manage the condition and safeguard your long-term health…