Diabetes is the fastest-growing disease in America.

In addition to the nearly 24 million people living with diabetes, an estimated 6 million Americans are unaware that they have the disease.

Walgreens, a national drugstore chain, is hoping to change that.

It is offering free blood glucose testing from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. today — Feb. 5 — at its 24-hour stores and Take Care Clinics nationwide, including the two locations in Lawrence at 400 W. 23rd St. and 3421 W. Sixth St.

The free testing will be offered through Feb. 18 at the Take Care Clinics. That includes the Lawrence clinic on Sixth Street. It will offer testing from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and from noon to 4 p.m. weekends.

Blood glucose testing is available to patients 18 years and older.

In November, Walgreens had its first Diabetes Wellness events, through which more than 80,000 tests were administered. More than 25 percent of individuals who were screened at the events tested “at risk” for diabetes.

“We want everyone who’s concerned about diabetes to be able to get tested. Through interaction with our pharmacists and Take Care nurse practitioners, and the many tools and resources Walgreens offers, we hope to improve the lives of those affected by diabetes or at risk for diabetes.”

— Kermit R. Crawford, Walgreens executive vice president of pharmacy services

For more information about diabetes or the clinics, visit Walgreens’ Web site.