Fourth Annual Harlem Family Health Fair happens Saturday, October 11

American Kidney Fund
Tuesday, 7 October 2003

The American Kidney Fund and the New York City Mission Society will host the fourth annual Harlem Health Fair, Saturday, October 11 from 11:00am to 4:00pm, at Minisink Townhouse, 646 Malcolm X Boulevard at 142nd Street.

African Americans have disproportionately higher rates of hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, and kidney disease than the general population (diabetes and hypertension are the main causes of kidney disease). Hispanic Americans are at greater risk of kidney disease, because of the high rate of diabetes in the community. Harlem Hospital Center will provide health screenings at the fair for hypertension, diabetes, and kidney disease, as well as asthma, cholesterol levels and glaucoma.

Executive Director Karen Sendelback noted, "The Harlem Family Health Fair will be a great opportunity to raise awareness and identify people who are at risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD). One out of every three Americans with kidney failure is African American, one out of four Hispanic Americans has diabetes, and that's why education and early diagnosis are so important. The Fund's Minority Intervention and Kidney Education (MIKE) program was designed with these staggering statistics in mind.

Healthy cooking and exercise demonstrations will be highlighted at the fair, as well as learning sessions with medical experts, a children's literacy session and live entertainment.

For more information, or to contact American Kidney Fund, see their website at: www.akfinc.org