Kidney screenings, flu vaccines and more are scheduled during 8th Street YMCA’s Health Fair. The fair is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at the YMCA, 900 N. 8th St., Kansas City, Kan.
Free kidney screenings, flu shots, weight and body mass index readings will be available, thanks to 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.
For more information, call 913-321-9622 or visit www.kansascityymca.org/.
In the event of inclement weather, call first to see if the event will still be held.