Saint Michael's Medical Center to Host Free Diabetes Health Fair and Screening

NEWARK, N. J. (October 12, 2009) –– In observance of National Diabetes Month in November, Saint Michael’s Medical Center will host a free diabetes health fair on Friday, November 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will be held at Mother Schervier Hall, located on the hospital campus at 268 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard in Newark.

Participants can receive a variety of free health screenings, including free eye exams provided in partnership with the New Jersey Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired. The health fair will include participation from insurance companies and vendors offering products and services to help people with diabetes, and the Newark YMCA will offer a fitness program. Free refreshments, cooking demonstrations, giveaways, and educational materials will be offered, and participants will have an opportunity to win prizes.

“Diabetes affects thousands of New Jersey residents, and complications from diabetes can be life-threatening,” said Patrice Paolella, MPH, RD, CDE, director of the Diabetes Management Center at Saint Michael’s Medical Center. “The good news is that patients can prevent or manage diabetes and its complications with help from their diabetes care team and by making healthy lifestyle choices. On November 6, we’ll be raising awareness about the importance of diabetes self-management education.”

Registration for eye exams is required — call (877) 786-4534. Eye drops used in the exam can temporarily blur vision, and participants are encouraged to arrange for a ride home. Participants wishing to receive a blood glucose screening are encouraged not to eat anything the morning of the event. For more information, call the Diabetes Management Center at Saint Michael’s Medical Center, at (973) 877-2885.

Established by the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor in 1867, Saint Michael’s Medical Center is a 357-bed regional tertiary-care, teaching and research center in the heart of Newark’s business and educational district. Saint Michael’s Medical Center is a member of Catholic Health East (CHE). Based in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, Catholic Health East is one of the nation’s largest nonprofit health systems, with 34 hospitals in 11 states. More information is available at www.smmcnj.org.

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