Southern Nevada Health District to Offer Free Diabetes Screening

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 13, 2007

LAS VEGAS – The Southern Nevada Health District in association with its community partners is sponsoring a free diabetes screening event between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., Saturday, March 17 at the Vons pharmacy located at 2224 S. Nellis Blvd. at the corner of S. Nellis Blvd. and Sahara Ave. For more information, contact the health district’s Office of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion at 759-1270.

Free blood sugar screenings for diabetes will be available in addition to blood pressure checks, body mass index and waist measurements. For best results, it is recommended that individuals fast for eight hours prior to the test; however, individuals can take their medications and they can drink water. Information about the disease and community resources will be available.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease and is generally seen in adults, although it is diagnosed in children as well. While diabetes occurs in people of all ages and races, it is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans and Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders. In addition, older Americans have an elevated risk of developing the disease. Early detection of the disease allows patients to manage the disease and prevent complications.

Community partners include Vons, Salud en Acción, American Diabetes Association, the Nevada State Health Insurance Assistance Program, Nevada Health Centers, Inc., Nevada Alliance Against Diabetes, Telemundo/TV 39, KCEP-FM, La Preciosa 101.9 FM, University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, LUCES, the Reach 2010 Health Hearts Project, Abbott Diabetes Care, Consolidated Laboratory Services, and the Medical Reserve Corps.

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The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.