Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – On Saturday, September 21, Mount Zion First African Baptist Church in downtown Charlottesville will hold its third annual Men’s Health Day, a free event aimed at addressing critical health concerns for men in the community. Running from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the event offers a wide range of free services, including over $1,000 worth of health screenings, such as cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests. 

Pastor Alvin Edwards, senior pastor of the church, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “This is our third year doing it. Last year… we had like 100 men,” highlighting the growing need for these health services in the community at. Alongside health checks, the event will also feature free haircuts, gift bags, and meals for attendees. Edwards stressed the importance of breaking the silence around men’s health, especially issues like prostate cancer, which often go unaddressed.  

“We’re trying to have a positive impact on the lives of men,” Edwards shared, noting the partnerships with UVA Health and LabCorp, which are providing many of the services. In addition to the screenings, flu and COVID-19 vaccinations will be offered, with transportation to and from the event available, ensuring accessibility for all participants. 

Edwards also reflected on the broader importance of encouraging men to take charge of their health, stating, “Men do not want to talk about their health issues and they don’t want to address them as I think they should.” He hopes this initiative will inspire men in the community to seek preventative care and build a culture of health consciousness. 

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