Pharmacy Students Offer Free Diabetes Screening and Health Information

Students from the University of Cincinnati’s College of Pharmacy will provide free diabetes screenings and blood pressure checks and answer general health questions at a health fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26, in the lobby of the Westin Cincinnati, 21 E. Fifth St.

“We want to help educate people about their health and encourage them to become more knowledgeable about their well-being,” says Gail Goedde-Chin, a doctoral candidate (PharmD) in the College of Pharmacy. She’s also a member of the UC chapter of the Academy of Student Pharmacists, who are hosting the event to mark American Pharmacists Month.

According to the American Diabetes Association, 18.2 million people (6.3 percent of the population) had diabetes in 2002 and the number is growing.

“Unfortunately, millions of people have undiagnosed diabetes,” says assistant professor Michael Doherty, PharmD, who will attend the fair to answer questions and ensure people are using their medications safely and effectively. “Diabetes complications can include blindness, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and kidney and dental diseases.” However, says Dr. Doherty, “Diabetes can often be controlled with diet and medication when diagnosed, which is one reason these free screenings are important.”

Informational handouts will be available on controlling blood sugar, heartburn, understanding medicines, drug safety and choosing a pharmacist.

In addition, Kroger Pharmacy will offer flu vaccinations for $20—$5 off its regular price. Health professionals, people who work with young children, older adults and those with chronic health issues are encouraged to have flu shots.

UC College of Pharmacy, one of the oldest pharmacy colleges in the United States, offers both professional practice (PharmD) and graduate (MS and PhD) degrees. Supported by an active research faculty, the college provides students with an opportunity to develop their individual skills. Graduates of the college have a 100 percent placement rate prior to graduation. The most recent class of PharmD graduates achieved a 100 percent passing grade on the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy Licensure Examination (NABPLEX).