A 2012 Health Fair attendee gets her blood checked for free.
The 23rd Annual Community Health Fair Family Fun Day will take place on Saturday, April 27, 2013, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Grace Community Church on Glenn Avenue.
The committee announced that one of the most popular offerings will again be available this year.
Midwest Ultrasound will be onsite to perform vascular screenings for abdominal aortic aneurysm / carotid artery stenosis (stroke risk) / peripheral arterial disease. The screenings are a $120 value but are being offered for $75. Due to the high demand for this test over the past three years, this screening is offered by appointment only.
“The appointments filled up so quickly last year that we ended up scheduling an extra day’s worth of appointments the following Monday at the hospital,” said Chelsie Hornsby, publicity chairperson, “so if you are interested in this test, please call as soon as possible.”
Appointments are now being taken and can be secured by calling Cheryl Royster, Fayette County Memorial Hospital Social Services Director, at 333-2945.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) The aorta is the largest artery in the body, supplying blood to the abdomen, pelvis and legs. An abnormal enlargement of the aorta caused by weakening of the arterial wall is called an aneurysm. A large aneurysm in this artery can
rupture, which is often fatal.
Carotid Artery Stenosis (Stroke Risk) The carotid arteries are the main blood supply lines to the brain. Build-up of a fatty substance called plaque can partially or completely block these arteries. This blockage, if severe, can significantly increase the risk of stroke.
Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) Arterial blockage from plaque can also develop in the arteries of the legs resulting in reduced blood flow. This can affect the ability to walk, if severe enough, could result in a risk of amputation.
Here’s how they are done: AAA and Carotid Artery Screening – For these tests you will lie on your back on an exam table. The Vascular Sonographer will apply a small amount of clear gel to your abdomen and/or neck. An ultrasound transducer is moved painlessly over the area to acquire images and assess blood flow. For the abdominal aortic screening we ask that you fast for 6 hours prior to your test, and eat a light meal the night before. You may take your medications with water. For the carotid artery test there is no preparation needed, just wear a loose open-collar shirt or blouse.
PAD Screen – For this test you will lie on your back on an exam table. The Vascular Sonographer will use blood pressure cuffs and a special Doppler ultrasound transducer to measure the pressures in each arm, and in the arteries of both ankles. A mathematic calculationof these pressures will suggest the presence or absence of significant arterial blockage.
The $75 fee is payable by check or cash at the time of service, on the day of the health fair.
For more information about these conditions and test visit: www.midwestultrasound.com. Watch for more information in Fayette Advocate in the upcoming weeks.