Free Health Screenings for Black Males

Alameda County Supervisor Keith Carson will host a free health screening for black men and boys this evening that will include information on preventative health care measures.

Carson said he’s hosting the event, as well as other health screenings, because black males in the U.S. are disproportionately affected by major health issues such as strokes, heart disease, cancer, diabetes and HIV and AIDS. They also don’t have the same access to quality medical care as do other groups, he said.

“The numbers jump off the chart,” Carson said.

The health concerns for black males impact their life expectancy rates, their quality of life and their ability to interact positively in their communities, he said.

Among the issues that will be discussed at today’s event are binge drinking, drug use and having sex at an early age, Carson said. The health and wellness resource event will be held at the West Oakland Youth Center at 3233 Market St. in Oakland from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

There will be a panel discussion that will be followed by one-on-one screenings in a confidential setting. Carson said doctors and other health professionals will answer questions about preventive care, medical coverage and the impact of major diseases on black males. There also will be a special session dedicated specifically to health issues affecting teens and young adults.

In addition, participants will be able to enroll in Medi-Cal and CalFresh, which is a supplemental nutrition assistance program for low-income people, and have a free meal.

Carson said this evening’s health screening is part of his “Year of the African American Male” initiative. He said the initiative seeks to have individuals and organizations work collaboratively toward improving outcomes in the areas of health, fatherhood, education, mentoring, workforce development, criminal justice and re-entry into the workforce.

--Bay City News; Patch Image Archive

Also on Patch:

• Make Plans Now: Free 4th of July Concert
• Two Injured in Oakland Home Invasion
• Play Ball, Oakland and Cal Fans! We Rock!!
• AUSD High Schools Earn Recognition
• Reward Offered in Oakland Pedestrian Death
• Let’s Erase Negative Stigma Associated with Mental Illness