UnityPoint Health is working to raise awareness of the importance of health screenings for Black men.
UnityPoint Health is working with local organizations to host “Buzzer Beaters and Bad Hair Days: Men’s Health Event” on Saturday, March 23 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at The Lincoln Center, 318 E. Seventh Street in Davenport. The free event’s goal is to raise awareness about the importance of regular health screenings in Black men while encouraging them to take charge of their wellbeing.
According to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Black men have the lowest life expectancy and the highest death rates compared to both men and women of other racial and ethnic groups. Heart disease and cancer are two of the top leading causes of death in Black men in the United States. UnityPoint created the event to highlight the unique health needs of men.
“We believe that empowering men with knowledge and access to preventive healthcare services is critical in improving overall health outcomes,” says Teresa Pangan, PhD, prevention & wellness strategist at UnityPoint Health. “By connecting with our community in the places they already frequent, we can encourage proactive health management and early detection through education and access to lifesaving health screenings, ultimately leading to healthier, happier lives.”
Medicine in the Barbershop, an initiative with UnityPoint Health, works with local barbers in the area to give free haircuts while talking about issues rarely talked about among men. During the event, men will have access to vital health education including information on blood pressure, diabetes and cancer screenings.
Michael Cribbs, outreach director for the Davenport YMCA and youth minister for Third Missionary Baptist Church, will be the event’s emcee. “Prioritizing your health isn’t just a personal choice, it’s a gift you give to yourself and your family,” says Cribbs. “Taking care of yourself enables you to continue enjoying quality time with your loved ones.