The event, held under the Lynx Group of Missouri and Illinois, offered free health screenings to attendees.
ST. LOUIS — A vibrant community health fair took center stage at Harris-Stowe State University's Early Childhood Development Center last Saturday to address health conditions that disproportionately impact certain communities.
The event, sponsored by the Gateway and Archway Chapters of Lynx, Inc., was designed to ensure all communities receive the resources they need to effectively combat health issues.
Trina Williams, accompanied by her daughter Chaya Hill, shared her family's history of chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.
Hill emphasized the importance of lifestyle changes in dealing with these symptoms, saying, “I eat very differently than I used to eat as a child. Dramatically different. Red meat. Eat less, avoid junk food, don't eat sugar, etc. So just really stay healthy.”
At the Black Wellness Expo, health and wellness vendors provided important information and services. This included chronic kidney disease. Hypertension; Diabetes; Heart Health; Blood Donation; Organ/Tissue Donor Awareness. Breast and prostate cancer awareness. dental health; mental health awareness; Caregiver Resources. Preventing bullying and building physical strength. Additionally, the event promoted voter registration to oppose health inequities and emphasized the importance of community engagement in addressing systemic health issues.
During the panel discussion, survivors shared their stories and highlighted the impact of chronic kidney disease, which disproportionately affects African American communities. According to the Kidney Foundation, black people are more than three times as likely to develop chronic kidney disease.
“That's one of the reasons this is a family health fair. If we can get three generations involved, that's a good thing. Mom,” said Stacey Edwards, president of Lynx's Gateway, Illinois, chapter. An intergenerational approach was emphasized. , daughter, and granddaughter. ”
Loren Mind, president of the Missouri chapter, emphasized the importance of education and awareness in managing health risks, saying, “We want to get the word out to people. Educate them, make them aware of the risks, I want to be able to take responsibility.” And take care of your health. ”
For participants like Chaya Hill, the event was informative and inspiring. Reflecting on the presence of Black medical professionals, Hill said, “It was eye-opening to see all of the Black physicians on the panel, and to see so many subordinates educated in the medical field, especially since I want to be a physician myself. That's what I felt like,” he said. ”
In addition to valuable information, the health fair offered more than 50 free health exams to ensure essential health services reach those who need them most. This event exemplified a community-driven approach to addressing health disparities and promoting a culture of proactive health care and empowerment.
As communities continue to face systemic health challenges, initiatives like Community Health Fairs serve as important platforms for education, advocacy, and access to resources, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for everyone. We work towards a healthier and more just future.
