BAPS Charities health fair focuses on diagnosis, prevention
Heart Disease. Diabetes. Obesity. These are only a few of the prevalent health issues that Americans face every day; however, many people are not even aware that they are at risk. To address this, BAPS Charities focused on timely diagnosis and prevention techniques as part of its annual health fair on Saturday, September 28, 2013 in Lilburn, Georgia.
In providing screenings and examinations to over 600 participants throughout the day, the health fair aimed to provide healthcare services to community members who may have challenges to accessing such services on their own. In addition to routine testing, participants had the opportunity to consult with various specialists to discuss their health concerns, risk factors, methods of prevention, and other related information.
"The reason that we organize this health fair every year is to give individuals the resources to better their health," said Dr. Kalpesh Patel, a medical research specialist and local BAPS Charities volunteer.
In the spirit of helping others, over 80 professionals and specialists volunteered, from numerous fields including cardiology, family practice, pediatrics, physical therapy, nutrition, naturopathy, psychiatry, ophthalmology, gynecology, orthopedics, internal medicine, chiropractors, and even stress and pain management.
Dr. Purvi Patel, a podiatrist from Atlanta, commented, "The health fair is an opportunity for me to give back to the community. By meeting patients today, I am able to give them advice on small steps they can take to improve their overall health in the way of stretches and exercises."
BAPS Charities was able to offer approximately 14 different types of tests including complete blood count, blood glucose, kidney and liver function, electrolytes, cholesterol panel, thyroid test, and PSA (for men). Additional health screening included diabetes, cholesterol, body fat analysis, eye and dental issues, anemia, and skin problems. Patients were able to consult one on one with specialists to review their screening results and determine what measures they could take to live a healthier lifestyle. “This is a great opportunity for people to learn about specialties they didn't consider visiting before as they may not know they need to. It is so helpful that so many specialists are available today because they can go talk to each one and find solutions to all their healthcare needs.” said Dr. Sandra Earl, a chiropractor from Atlanta, Georgia.
Booths provided information on public health awareness, healthy lifestyle habits, healthcare policies, and preventive medicine, with experts on hand to provide guidance. Health seminars were available, and information on daily exercises, yoga for physical fitness, common health issues, and medication use.
In 2013, with 38 such health fairs organized throughout North America, BAPS Charities enabled nearly 1,760 health professionals to address the needs of 11,818 fair participants in local communities across the nation. BAPS Charities also hosts walkathons, education and career development seminars, disaster relief operations, blood drives and much more, improving the quality of life of individuals and families.
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