June was National Men’s Health Month and The City of East Orange

June 29, 2023July 15, 2023 R.L. Witter

Fourth Ward Councilman Casim Gomez gets his
blood pressure checked by Nurse Karen LaRussa,
an employee of the city’s Department of Health
and Human Services.

Dr. George Johnson and Mayor Ted R. Green. Dr.
Johnson, a urologist with over four decades of
experience, spoke to men in the barbershop about
the importantance of prevention for prostate cancer.

June was National Men’s Health Month and The City of East Orange, in partnership with Scovil’s Barber Shop, CareWell Health Medical Center, Essex County Health Department, RWJBarnabas Health, North Jersey Foot and Ankle Center, and Triple Double Juice, hosted a Men’s Health Fair on Saturday, June 17, 2023 at 460 Central Avenue in East Orange.

The health fair, which was held outdoors in front of Scovil’s Barber Shop, attracted a steady stream of men of all ages who were encouraged to take care of their bodies by eating right, exercising, and working to prevent disease.

Among the services offered were free screenings and assessments for:

Blood Pressure
Cholesterol
Body Fat
Lung Capacity and Lung Cancer Risk
HIV/AIDS
Depression/Anxiety

The county and city mobile health clinics were on site to administer COVID vaccinations and distribute free at-home COVID testing kits, while free healthy juices sponsored by Triple Double Juice were given out next door.

Mayor Ted R. Green speaks to men in Scovil’s
Barber Shop about the importance of prevention
and knowing their numbers.

“It is so important for men to take care of themselves and early detection and prevention are key to helping men to enjoy longer, healthier lives,” said Mayor Green. “Our location choice was very intentional as neighborhood barber shops are often safe spaces for men to talk, share common experiences and express concerns. Bringing information directly to our men is one of the greatest ways we can spread awareness and hopefully save lives.”

It is crucial that men and boys be aware of health risks according to age, ethnicity, and lifestyle. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 13.2% of Black men aged 18 and over are in fair or poor health, and Black men suffer from poor health and a higher incidence of death than any other racial group.

“The connection between mind, body and spirit is a proven one and I encourage the men in our communities to be proactive in striving for physical and emotional wellness. Making lifestyle changes is truly an investment in your future,” said Mayor Green.