The Big Sandy Mountaineer -

The 18th bi-annual Chouteau County Health Fair is coming soon. The highlight of the health fair is the blood chemistry screening tests. The blood draws for the health fair will be available as follows:

Big Sandy – October 10 - Big Sandy City Hall, 115 Johannes St - 6:30 - 11:00 am

Fort Benton – October 11 - Community Bible Center, 911 16th St - 6:30 – 11:00 am

Geraldine – October 12 – Old Auditorium, 326 Hilger St 6:30 am – 11:00 am

For a minimal fee, you can have a chem screen profile including tests for diabetes, cholesterol levels, iron binding, liver and bone functions plus a complete coronary risk profile. In order to obtain the most accurate test results for the blood drawing, it is essential that you not have anything to eat or drink (except water and normal prescribed medicine) for at least 12 hours prior to the blood drawing. To make easier to have your blood, wear clothing with loose fitting sleeves.

An optional blood test called Prostatic Specific Antigen (PSA) for men will be available. This screening test is specifically for men over 40 years of age or those who have a family history of prostate cancer. Since this test is controversial, it is best if the individual visits with his physician first concerning the pros and cons.

Other optional blood tests will be available again this year. One is called CBC (Complete Blood Count). CBC’s are used to present a general picture of a person’s overall health, diagnose disease states such as anemia and confirm the presence of infections. Another optional test is Hemoglobin A1c, which screens for diabetes and heart disease. The other optional tests being offered are testosterone (male and female), Vitamin D, B12 and folate screenings. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine which tests you should have done.

In addition to the blood tests, flu shots will be available. Many agencies and individuals will also have booths to share prevention and awareness resource materials regarding: nutrition, physical therapy, cancer and cancer support, hearing, diabetes, strength training, supplemental nutrition programs, wearing seat belts, quitting smoking and emergency preparedness.

Your results will be mailed directly to you within 14 days. It is important for you to make the results available to your healthcare provider as a copy will not be sent to them.

During the Health Fairs, participants will be able to receive a free bone density screening for osteoporosis and will also be able to have their skin tested. The Health Fair is organized as a cooperative venture between the Chouteau County Extension Office, Chouteau County Health Department and Big Sandy Medical Center.

Take charge of your health, save money and plan to participate in the Chouteau County blood screening and Health Fair.

If you have questions, contact Janell Barber at the Chouteau County Extension Office at 622-3036.