The annual health fair at the Indiana Black Expo kicked off Thursday and for many it's the only chance to receive important health screenings.
This is the 34th year for the health fair and it coincides with one of the state’s largest cultural events. The Indiana State Department of Health sponsors the fair and Commissioner Dr. Kris Box says preventative screenings are essential.
"It’s especially relevant when we talk about Hoosiers, because we don’t have a lot of fabulous health metrics here in the state of Indiana," says Box.
People who attend can receive more than $2,000 worth of free health screenings and services. Box says than can have an impact.
"Maybe because we found a breast lump, or diagnosed a problem with their prostrate," says Box. "Or found out they’re diabetic and they kind of suspected, but they were just to scared or busy to get tested."
Attendee Rose Herbert says the opportunity is important to her.
"I’m gonna get my eyes, I’m gonna get my blood pressure, my cholesterol and whatever I can get," says Herbert.
The health fair offers free educational information throughout the weekend in Indianapolis. People can also receive mental health and dementia screenings.