Men could improve their health and reduce the severity of any oncoming health issues by visiting their doctors more often.
The Rotary Club of Prince George hopes a Saturday clinic on the topic of diabetes for men will help stimulate more male attendance with their family physicians so men's health issues can be better dealt with.
"We men tend not to go to the doctor as often. We want to make sure guys address their health, so the focus of this initiative is on that awareness. We hope this will be the start of a new health regime," said Ross Birchall, an active Rotary member taking the lead on organizing this Saturday's clinic and a series of others pertaining specifically to men's health. He also helps organize the city's prostate cancer support group.
Participants must preregister by calling 250-617-2711. The free clinic will be held at the hospital, and when you call to get your name on the list, the time and place will be explained.
Birchall said participants will meet with a doctor for a personal exchange of key information and a comprehensive risk assessment done for each person. More medical attention may be suggested, and that process will be outlined for each person individually.
"These screenings are not meant to replace primary healthcare, but it will get people into some important dialogue, give them some information and some ideas about questions they should be asking their doctor going forward, and taking charge of their own health better than before," Birchall said. "It is really easy and simple to take part in."
The other clinics on the schedule include a prostate screening on January 17 and a cardiovascular screening session on April 18.
Bring On the Big Blue Ball
The costs of running these informational screenings and the prostate cancer support group are covered by the funds raised at the Big Blue Ball event.
That event features a dinner, music, auction, and keynote speaker. This year's special guest is a former federal cabinet minister, Nobel Peace Prize nominee and President of the UN Security Council. Lloyd Axworthy will present a nonpartisan conversation entitled The Responsibility to Protect.
The Big Blue Ball happens Nov. 1 at the Coast Inn of the North. Tickets are $75 available at the hotel front desk or from local Rotarians.
