Created on Friday, 12 June 2009 15:43

Contact: Collette DuValle, 317-373-2391

Annual Men’s Health Fair Set for June 20

It’s no secret that many men don’t enjoy going to the doctor. Studies have shown when it comes to their health, men trail women in nearly every category.

On Saturday, June 20, Wishard Health Services and WTHR Channel 13 are hoping to change this trend and help men receive the medical attention they need. Wishard and WTHR will be partnering once again for the tenth annual Men’s Health Fair from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Blackburn Health Center, located at 2700 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Indianapolis.

“A lot of men don’t receive regular health checks for a variety of reasons,” said Dr. Ike Means, a physician at Blackburn Health Center. “This Father’s Day weekend we encourage men to come out and get the important care they need to stay healthy.”

Healthcare professionals will answer questions and provide free mini-physical exams for men during the fair. Free health screenings will include blood pressure, body mass index, diabetes, prostate cancer, back analysis, eye health, cholesterol, dental and STD screenings. Kenny’s Barber Shop and School will provide free haircuts. Refreshments provided by Teamsters Local 135 and giveaways will also be offered.

v Dr. Means said even if men have visited a doctor recently, the event offers a chance to follow up on blood pressure, cholesterol and prostate readings. He said if the readings raise a red flag, referrals and follow up appointments can be arranged immediately.

Sponsors for this year’s Men’s Health Fair include Wishard Health Services, WTHR Channel 13, Marion County Health Department, IU Medical Group, Central Indiana Cancer Centers, Clarian Federal Credit Union, Circle City HIV/AIDS Coalition, Prevent Blindness Indiana and Little Red Door Cancer Agency.

The Blackburn Health Center, one of eight Wishard health centers, provides healthcare services for the community in primary care, family planning and social and dental services. For more information about the health fair, please call Milton Flowers at (317) 931-4306.