May 11--"We often will hear our pastor before we hear anyone else," said Diane Robinson, community health educator for Piedmont Health Services and Sickle Cell Agency.

That's why her agency decided to partner with Providence Baptist Church to sponsor the fifth annual National Women's Check-Up Day for women in Guilford County.

"We thought this partnership would allow us to reach the broader community," Robinson said.

The event was started in response to National Women's Health Week, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services .

Check-Up Day is from noon to 8 p.m. Monday in the Howard A. Chubbs Family Enrichment Center at Providence Baptist . The event is free and open to the community .

Geared toward women age 18 and older , Check-Up Day will include health screenings for sickle cell, blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, glaucoma, depression, posture and foot health. In addition, there will be spinal screenings, breast exams and HIV/STD testing.

After the tests, participants will be assessed by a registered nurse who will share what the test results mean and what steps should be taken next. Robinson said her agency then does a three-month follow-up with the participants.

National Women's Check-Up Day has been proven to raise awareness of the importance of annual physicals, Robinson said.

"Screenings demonstrate to participants that many health problems are preventable and treatable when detected early, with education, proper diet and physical activity," she said.

Check-Up Day will include screening for stress and depression.

"We'll learn about journaling about ourselves, which leads us to getting rid of the things that stress us," said Robinson.

Aerobic instructors will conduct classes demonstrating low-impact workouts.

Exhibits will include information on strokes, heart disease, diabetes, smoking prevention, food and nutrition, substance abuse, intimate partner violence, breast feeding, massage therapy and reproductive health.

A dietician will provide healthful snacks and information on healthy eating and shopping.

"We try to provide a festive atmosphere to educate women about health issues that affect them," Robinson said.

Registration is not required for the event. Participants register as they arrive.

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