The BVI Red Cross is gearing up for its biennial Men’s Health Fair and Prostate Screening, targeting adult males across the Virgin Islands.
Scheduled for February 1 on Virgin Gorda and February 7-8 on Tortola, the fair promises a wide range of free health services.
Director of the BVI Red Cross, Ms. Stacy Lloyd, spoke to 284 Media about the initiative and highlighted the many services that will be provided free of cost. These include blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose checks, eye exams, HIV testing, prostate cancer screenings, oral health evaluations, mental health support, and—for the first time—ear care screenings.
As it relates to the screening of the prostate, Lloyd said two methods of testing will be used, which include the traditional digital rectal exam and the prostate-specific antigen test.
On Virgin Gorda, the fair will be held at the Catholic Centre from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. On Tortola, it will take place at the Multipurpose Sports Complex from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
To ensure the event is accessible to residents on all four main islands, the BVI Red Cross has arranged transportation for men from Anegada and Jost Van Dyke who wish to attend the fair.
Men planning to attend are advised not to eat prior to their tests, as food consumption could affect the accuracy of some results. However, participants will be provided with a nutritious meal after their screenings, courtesy of the Lion’s Club.
Director Lloyd expressed her gratitude to the sponsors who have made the health fair possible and encouraged all men across the territory to take advantage of this important opportunity.