 In 2007, it was estimated that more than 1,600 Abbeville County adults suffered from diabetes. Diabetes was also the tenth leading cause of death. At Abbeville Area Medical Center, in partnership with area physicians, we are making a difference in our statistics.
AAMC will host its first annual Diabetes Awareness and Health Fair to help educate our community about Diabetes and to promote good health in general. The Fair, scheduled for Friday, November 13th, from 10:00am – 6:00pm, will be held at the hospital’s Wellness Center.
This fun-filled event will include general health information, education and detection of diabetes as well as information regarding the complications associated with this disease. Diabetes product vendors will also be in attendance. Gift bags with free samples and literature will be given and everyone who attends can register for door prizes that include digital lighted and mirrored scales, certificates for a free mammogram, cardiac scoring and calcium scoring, a two-month membership to the wellness center, and our grand prize, a computer. The first 300 in attendance will receive a free tote from the Diabetes Research Foundation.
The event celebrates World Diabetes Awareness Day, November 14, and marks the birthday of Frederick Banthing who, with Charles Best, first conceived the idea leading to the discovery of insulin in 1922. The theme for World Diabetes Day over the next five years is Diabetes Education and Prevention.
AAMC will also offer a health fair during the event. Blood pressure checks, body fat analysis and blood sugar checks will be given free of charge. A1Cs for $10.00, Lipid panels for $10.00, and PSAs for $15.00 will also be offered. Other community organizations including Abbeville Area Medical Center, Cornerstone, the American Cancer Society, American Diabetes Association, Sexual Trauma and Counseling Center, Department of Social Services, SC Highway Patrol, Abbeville City Fire Department, Mental Health, and Abbeville Family Healthcare will also have booths.
The event is open to the public – even those who do not have diabetes. For additional information, contact the Diabetes Support and Education department at (864) 366-3341.
|