For a variety of reasons many men do not enjoy going to the doctor. Whether it is fear of a diagnosis, embarrassment or a feeling of being invincible, men often skip regular medical appointments. Studies have shown for years that when it comes to their health, men trail the opposite sex in nearly every category.
On Saturday, June 18, a day before Father’s Day, Eskenazi Health hopes to change this trend and help men receive the medical attention they need. The 18th annual Men’s Health Fair will be from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Eskenazi Health Center Blackburn, located at 2700 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. As an added bonus, free screenings will also be available for women.
“We know men often don’t often receive regular health checks. What better Father’s Day gift can you give than encouraging your father, brother or son to come out and get the important care they need and also get the care you need, too,” said Dr. Delise Webber, a physician at Eskenazi Health Center Blackburn. “This weekend we encourage men, and women, too, to come out and get the important care they need to stay healthy.”
Health care professionals will be on hand to answer questions and provide screenings for men and women during the fair. Free health screenings will also be offered, including prostate exams, blood pressure, cholesterol, body mass index (BMI), diabetes, dental, and HIV and STD screenings.
The top health threats for men include heart disease and cancer. Most men’s health threats are largely preventable. By making healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising and refraining from smoking, many men can prevent future diseases.
Dr. Webber said even if a patient has visited a doctor recently, the event offers a chance to follow up on blood pressure, cholesterol and wellness information. She said if the readings raise a red flag, referrals and follow-up appointments can be arranged.
Sponsors for this year’s Men’s Health Fair include Eskenazi Health Center, Marion County Public Health Department and MDwise. Kenny’s Barbershop will once again be providing free haircuts.
Eskenazi Health Center Blackburn provides a medical home for families in the areas of internal and family medicine, pediatrics, adolescent care, family planning, dental care and social services. The center is one of 11 Eskenazi Health Center sites located throughout Indianapolis.
For more information about the health fair, please call 931-4300.
