During the month of February, the Kent Fire Department will participate in hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes screening events where firefighters will provide opportunities for the general public to have these critical areas evaluated. The purpose of this program is to identify individuals who have no previous history of hypertension or diabetes and provide them with an opportunity to seek medical follow-up.
This program is important for a number of reasons. First, it provides a means to identify health risks and refer people to treatment prior to them needing to call 9-1-1. Second, it provides a means of personal contact between the fire department and the community. Finally, it provides a necessary service to all parts of the community, works with other risk reduction programs, and it supports community partnerships committed to reducing community health risks.
The Kent Fire Department believes that promoting early detection of health issues can improve the quality of life for our community members. We believe that this event will save lives.
Last year, with the support of area businesses, Kent firefighters were able to contact over 1,487 individuals. They conducted more than 1,300 blood pressure checks and over 1,000 blood sugar checks. Twenty-five percent of the blood pressure checks and six percent of the blood sugar checks resulted in the discovery of a possibly undiagnosed medical condition. This knowledge enabled individuals to make important informed decisions regarding their personal health.
Fire Departments have traditionally engaged in public education and fire prevention programs and this effort toward providing health screening and health education is a logical extension of an agency that is committed to public safety and the prevention of acute medical emergencies.
During the month of February, your firefighters will be present at various community sites where they will provide free health screenings for the public.
For information on where Kent firefighters will be set up to provide these services, please call 253-856-4481 or go to www.ci.kent.wa.us/calendar.
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