Walgreens is offering free blood glucose screenings at selected drug stores in 33 states and Washington, D.C., during November, which is National Diabetes Month.

The pharmacy chain noted that one in four customers who had their blood glucose checked in Walgreens stores last November during diabetes awareness events tested outside the desired range or high.

DEERFIELD, Ill. — Walgreen Co. has begun offering free blood glucose testing at some of its drug stores across the country.

Walgreens said the free blood glucose screenings will be available in 33 states and Washington, D.C., with a coupon during November, which is National Diabetes Month.

A coupon for the test, a $20 value, can be found in each store and in Walgreens’ weekly ad in many Sunday newspapers, according to the drug chain.

Walgreens pharmacists perform the blood glucose tests with a quick fingerstick. The tests are available on a walk-in basis to those age 18 and older. All customers getting a blood glucose test will receive a pharmacist consultation to help better understand results, and they are encouraged to share the test results with their primary care doctor.

The chain noted that one in four customers who received blood glucose tests in Walgreens stores last November during diabetes awareness events tested outside the desired range or high, meaning they could be at risk for diabetes.

"Diabetes is a serious health issue facing communities across the country, and blood glucose testing is an example of how our pharmacists are offering accessible, preventable health care services that help people live well and stay well," Suzanne Hansen, group vice president of pharmacy operations at Walgreens, said in a statement. "We want customers and patients to understand their numbers and the importance of knowing that they can make informed decisions about their health."

Also in November, participating 24-hour Walgreens stores will hold "Wellness Wednesdays" events that will provide information about diabetes management and Bayer blood glucose meters plus feature in-store sampling of Glucerna Hunger Smart bars and shakes, which are formulated for people with diabetes. The Wellness Wednesdays are scheduled to be held Nov. 2, 9 and 16 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Walgreens added that it has teamed up with Sharps Compliance and Novo Nordisk to offer a safe needle disposal option for people who self-inject medications. When customers buy the Complete Needle Collection & Disposal System, they will get a rebate form at the register for the $4.99 cost of the system through the end of November. The receipt will also include a coupon for free return postage and incineration of the container and needles.