NAMBUCCA Valley men are being encouraged to take just 10 minutes out of their day for a free health check when the Men’s Health Education Rural Van visits Nambucca Heads on 4 and 5 November.
Hosted by Nambucca Valley Rotary, the mobile health service will be stationed at Nambucca Plaza from 9.30am to 4.15pm on both days.
A registered nurse conducts free blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol checks in a relaxed, confidential and informal environment.
It’s also an opportunity to discuss any health concerns in the privacy of the van.
The initiative aims to reach men in regional and rural communities who may not regularly visit their GP and help identify potentially serious health conditions before symptoms develop.
High blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and abnormal blood sugar levels can often go unnoticed, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke and other serious health complications.
Since its establishment more than six years ago, the service has provided almost 30,000 free health checks across regional and rural NSW.
Around 8000 participants have been advised to seek further medical attention after checks identified potential health concerns.
Organisers report that more than 600 men have required urgent medical intervention, while the service is estimated to have saved or prolonged around 500 lives.
During one recent four-month tour, the van conducted 3097 free checks across 42 locations, highlighting the ongoing demand for accessible preventative healthcare.
Nambucca Valley Rotary’s Rod Blair is urging local men to take advantage of the opportunity, regardless of whether they believe they have any health concerns.
“You have absolutely nothing to lose by dropping in for 10 minutes,” Blair said.
“Even if you don’t reckon you need a quick check-up, do it for the peace of mind of your loved ones.”
The service is particularly valuable for those who have put off routine health checks, or have not visited a doctor for some time.
The message from Nambucca Valley Rotary is simple: 10 minutes of your time could make a life-changing difference.
No appointment is needed. Just stop by.
By Mick BIRTLES
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