CHARLOTTE — The Park Expo & Conference Center will host Black Men’s Wellness Day, a free health expo and 5K event, on Aug. 22. The expo is scheduled to run from 7 a.m. to noon and is open to Black men and their families.
The event aims to address specific health disparities identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. According to the CDC, Black men are more likely to develop prostate cancer and heart disease is a leading cause of death for the demographic. Organizers noted that both conditions are treatable and can often be prevented through early intervention.
Novant Health and several other organizations are partnering to sponsor the expo. In addition to health resources, the event will feature a 5K run or walk to encourage physical activity among participants.
Attendees will have access to a variety of free health screenings throughout the morning. These medical services range from standard blood pressure checks to more comprehensive health evaluations.
Don Jordan, a participant in the event, emphasized the importance of shifting cultural attitudes toward personal wellness.
“Just as a man in general, we don’t necessarily put the focus on our health,” Jordan said. “Trying to change that mindset, I think is important for for folks to try to get those those annual screenings as best as possible.”