Thursday, August 4, 2005

County Observes National Checkup Day

The Atlantic County Division of Public Health encourages you to make an appointment for a loved one to visit a health care professional on Tuesday, September 20 during national "Take A Loved One for a Checkup Day".

In association with the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services, Office of Minority and Multicultural Health, the Division is reminding residents about the importance of regular health screenings while focusing on the health gap between racial and ethnic minorities and the general population.

"We support this opportunity to encourage regular health screenings especially among those in our community who tend to have the least access to health care," explained County Executive Dennis Levinson.

Statistics show that many racial and ethnic minorities are dying prematurely and suffering from diseases such as diabetes, stroke, cancer, heart disease, HIV/AIDS, and vaccine-preventable diseases because they fail to receive regular health care. Health officials are designating this special day in an effort to screen new patients, and where necessary, refer them for follow-up care.

While "Take A Loved One for a Checkup Day" is specifically targeted towards racial and ethnic minorities who suffer from a higher rate of disease and illness, the campaign urges all Americans to take charge of their health by scheduling an appointment with a health care professional. The Division of Public Health continues to offer free health screenings through its Live Stronger, Longer program which includes blood pressure, cholesterol, fasting blood sugar and hemoccult testing. To schedule an appointment, please call (609) 645-5933.

For more information about "Take A Loved One for a Checkup Day," contact the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at (609) 645-5853.

County News