KANSAS CITY, KAN. – The community will have the opportunity to take charge of their health at the 8th Street Family YMCA’s annual health fair Saturday, November 15, at the 8th Street Y, 900 N. 8th Street, Kansas City, Kan., 66101.
Free kidney screenings, flu shots, weight and body mass index readings will be available, thanks to valuable support from the National Kidney Foundation and Walgreens. In addition, general health and nutrition information will be available.
For November’s Diabetes Month, the National Kidney Foundation’s KEEP Healthy (Kidney Early Evaluation Program) will offer approximately 100 free kidney screenings at the health fair for those at risk for kidney disease. Diabetes is a major risk factor for kidney disease.
According to the National Kidney Foundation, about 30 percent of patients with Type 1 (juvenile onset) diabetes and 10 to 40 percent of those with Type 2 (adult onset) diabetes eventually will suffer from kidney failure.
For the screening, participants will answer a brief health-risk survey and have their height, weight and blood pressure measured. Educational materials about the risk of developing chronic kidney disease, which afflicts one in three Americans, will also be provided.
During the health fair, families can also receive free flu shots through Walgreens. The Y will have 50 flu shot vouchers available for those that qualify. Those who do not have insurance will not qualify for a free vaccination but can still get one at the event using their insurance card.
YMCA representatives and other health professionals will have body mass index readings and will provide health and nutrition information and tips to lead a more healthy and active lifestyle.
Sandra Cvitanic Barrientos, nutritionist at the 8th Street YMCA, said this effort goes along with the multiple health and wellness initiatives the Y offers individuals and families, such as exercise, recreational activities for the entire family, and healthy cooking and nutrition classes.
What: Health Fair including kidney screenings, flu shots, body mass index readings, health and nutrition information and tips.
When: Saturday, November 15, 2014. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Kidney screenings from 10 a.m. to noon.
Where: 8th Street Family YMCA, 900 N. 8th Street, Kansas City, Kan., 66101.
Cost: Free for all those who qualify.
