Mayors kick off minority-focused screening push

PROVIDENCE – A partnership of health care and media companies has launched an effort to screen 500 residents across the state for diabetes and other health risks over the next three months.
The push to increase basic health screens, especially among minority populations, was kicked off with three Rhode Island mayors undergoing screenings. Providence Mayor Angel Taveras, Central Falls Mayor James Diossa and Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien all received a diabetes screening at Providence City Hall.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island, LIfespan and Walgreens are partnering to stage six wellness events statewide in April May and June, hoping to screen 500 residents for diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia – elevated levels of lipids that indicate potential heart disease risks.
According to BCBSRI, nearly 20 percent of African American adults, and 13 percent of Latino adults, have diagnosed or undiagnosed diabetes. Dyslipidemia and hypertension are also more common in minority communities–and patients often show no symptoms.
“Every day our doctors and nurses treat patients and families with diabetes and the complications of this disease,” said Julie Rawlings, minority outreach specialist for Lifespan Community Health Services. “Initiatives such as this will inform us of steps that may to be taken in order to support a healthier community.”
WBRU and Latino Public Radio are providing media support to the effort, which will include screening events at cultural centers, churches and schools in April, May and June.