DETROIT – State Representative Fred Durhal
Jr. (D-Detroit) is hosting a community health expo at the Dexter-Elmhurst Center to promote good health and
spread information on health issues in the Detroit area. Health care providers, health awareness groups and other
community organizations will provide information on a variety of health issues.
"Too many of our residents who need health care assistance don't have access to the services they need," Durhal said. "There are a number of programs in Michigan, and right here in Detroit, that our residents can take advantage of now to help their families and their children receive the quality health care that they deserve. That's why I put together this health expo."
The fair will be held Friday, May 29, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Dexter-ElmhurstCenter, 11825 Dexter Ave. in Detroit. At the event, residents can receive free screenings for blood pressure, vision, HIV/AIDS and blood sugar, as well as CPR and first aid training. Insurance enrollment resources also will be offered.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for all racial and ethnic groups in the United States and rates of death from the disease are highest among African-American adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). On average, the CDC reports, African-Americans also have the highest rate of high blood pressure in the U.S. and this rate is increasing.
"Approximately one million Michigan residents are living without health insurance, many right here in Detroit," Durhal said. "That's a risk our residents can't afford to take. Improving our health care system is important to me and continues to be one of my goals as State Representative. I hope residents take advantage of this free event and get the tests and screenings they need to stay healthy."