By Charles Swanigon/reporter

NE Campus will host a Health Fair in NSTU Center Corner 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 6.

Twenty-eight vendors will provide information and perform 12 screenings geared toward improving the wellness of students, faculty and staff.

Free health screenings will include blood pressure, bone density, cholesterol, fitness, glucose, pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, spinal analysis and vision.

Texas Health Resources will have a mammogram bus outside the Student Center 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Susan G. Komen Foundation qualifications apply for the uninsured, but appointments are required. Those interested should call 1-877-847-9355 for an appointment. Men will not have an opportunity to be screened.

According to the Center for Disease Control, “Mammograms are the best method to detect breast cancer early when it is easier to treat and before it is big enough to feel or cause symptoms.”

Breast self-examination is not an alternative to a mammogram. Women are encouraged to feel for lumps and swelling, but mammograms are a more effective tool to detect breast cancer early.

“A first-degree relative with breast cancer can be a sign of a genetic abnormality that would increase the chance of getting breast cancer,” Ana Gomez of the American Cancer Society said in an interview.

Carter BloodCare will have a mobile bus outside the Student Center 9 a.m.-4 p.m. for blood donations. Representatives will also conduct blood pressure and blood density screening in the NSTU Galley.

A limited number of flu shots and cholesterol tests will be carried out.

Flu shots will cost $12.

“Many students and adjuncts do not have health insurance,” said Patricia Marling, NE coordinator of health services.

Marling said October is a good month for such an event.

“Fall is a great time to hold our health fair because cold and flu season are coming,” she said.