Free Blood Pressure Screening Equipment Installed At Community Center
Tuesday, September 24th, 2024
Cardiovascular disease is the leading killer in the United States, and many people don't realize that they have a cardiac issue until it's too late. That's why the American Heart Association (AHA) in partnership with the City of Dalton and sponsor Engineered Floors has installed a new blood pressure testing machine in the lobby of the Mack Gaston Community Center. The machine is available to the public free of charge.
"This is really intended to bring awareness and have people know their numbers," AHA community impact director Berenice Vasquez said Tuesday during a dedication event for the new equipment. "We already have had some people come into the center (before the ceremony) to take their blood pressure and that’s what we want. We want people to know what their numbers are, and also have resources and if it is an issue, get assistance."
Caption: Will Young, a vice president at Engineered Floors, tries out the new blood pressure testing machine at the Mack Gaston Center. Engineered Floors is a sponsor for the machine
"You mentioned awareness and that’s something that we’re really aware of here. The majority of our participants or people who come here are Black or Hispanic and (cardiovascular disease) is really high in those communities," Tommy Pinson, the community center director said. "So, we’re happy that we’re able to make this available here to everyone in the community. There are times when we have 8,000 people coming through this facility in a month, so it’s going to be a great resource for the people here."
In addition to the testing machine, the AHA has also placed interpretive guides and information brochures next to the equipment. That way, people can determine if their results should be of concern and whether to follow up with a doctor.
Caption: The new blood pressure equipment at the Mack Gaston Community Center is available during regular business hours at the facility free of charge
"We really thank Tommy Pinson (and the Recreation Commission) for allowing us to have this here in the Mack Gaston Center," Vasquez said. "I think this is a great space. It’s really not just a gym, it’s really a community center where people come and use so many of the services like the gym and splash pad, there’s kids’ soccer in the back, the DEO clinic, so it’s a great resource so we really do thank you for allowing us to have this here."
The Mack Gaston Center is located at 218 N. Fredrick Street. The blood pressure equipment is located in the facility's lobby adjacent to the waiting area for the DEO Clinic. The equipment is available during operating hours for the center.
