The American Heart Association has expanded its Go Red for Women luncheon into something more. This year, the group will offer FREE screenings and health information for participants immediately following the annual Go Red for Women luncheon.

For instance, visitors who stop by the Rapides Regional Medical Center booth will be able to update their height, weight, BMI, blood pressure and blood glucose numbers. Other Go Red for Women sponsors will offer additional, free health testing and information.

“This is a chance for us to expand Go Red for Women to ALL women in Central Louisiana,” said Theresa Hood, RN, Director of Education at Rapides Regional Medical Center. “Some women will stop by our booth before the luncheon. But those who couldn’t fit the lunch event into their schedule or budget can still benefit. We want to makes sure everyone has a chance to check their heart disease risk factors and get the information they need to stay healthy.”

The Community Health Expo will take place from 2:00pm to 4:00pm on May 12 at the Holiday Inn Downtown Convention Center in Alexandria. The health expo is open to men and women. For more information, visit Greater Giving or call (800) 257-6941 ext. 6174.

The American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women movement uncovers the truth about heart disease – an often silent, hidden and misunderstood killer – so that all women can share the truth. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in America today.  Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death for females and the leading cause of serious, long-term disability.  Each year, 1 in 3 women die of heart disease and stroke. But we can change that because 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented with education and lifestyle changes.