Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
Individuals involved in production agriculture often set their priorities on caring for the health of their families and their livestock at the expense of neglecting their own health care, especially preventative health care.

Response:
Iowa State University Extension in Ottumwa has partnered with Wapello County Public Health, Indian Hills Community College of Nursing, community business and supportive individuals to provide free human health screens at the Annual Cornbelt Cow-Calf Conference. Screens provided this year were blood pressure checks, rapid diabetes checks, complete lipid panel, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, HDL and Derma Scan viewing.

Impact:
In response to the question – “Why are these types of services provided by Extension important?” attendees shared the following:

• The blood screening is a highlight of the show – something I look forward to each year (male)

• This is another way to promote general health. If you catch two or three people who need to see a doctor as a result of the screening, it was worth it! (male)

• This keeps us up to date on our health. I don’t go to the doctor very often, so it’s nice to have this chance (female)

• It’s nice to know your blood pressure and cholesterol, especially when it costs so much at the doctor’s office. The free service is great because if you’re not sick and don’t go all the time, you have no way of knowing if there are problems (female)

• We are so busy we never take the time to get checked. It’s important to know whether your cholesterol is in range or above and if you need to make a follow -up appointment (female); community sponsorship and partnerships enable the screens to be provided at no cost.

Contact:
Barbara Anderson
Wapello County Extension
214 East Main
Ottumwa, IA 52501
641-682-5491
bjanders@iastate.edu