June 11, 1999

SPRINGFIELD, IL - The Illinois Department of Public Health will sponsor a men's health fair, "Passport to Wellness," Monday through Wednesday (June 14-16) at the James R. Thompson Center in Chicago to raise awareness of the importance of preventive health behaviors and the early detection and treatment of health problems that affect men.

As part of the health fair, on Monday at noon on the Thompson Center plaza the U.S. Postal Service will unveil a new prostate cancer awareness stamp that was designed to encourage men to discuss with their doctors the need for regular prostate testing and examination.

"Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and rarely are there symptoms until it is too late," said Dr. John R. Lumpkin, state public health director. "With regular screening and early detection, prostate cancer can be successfully treated. By focusing on this disease and others that affect men, we can reduce the risk and incidence of these health problems."

Screening for prostate cancer will be offered for free at the health fair, as will testing for cholesterol and hypertension/blood pressure.

There also will be exhibits about hearing aids, cardiovascular disease, physical activity, nutrition, diabetes, oral health, colorectal cancer, workplace wellness, erectile dysfunction, arthritis, HIV/AIDS, tobacco, substance abuse and violence prevention.

Gov. George H. Ryan has proclaimed June 14 "Passport to Wellness Men's Health Day in Illinois" and Secretary of State Jesse White proclaimed June 14-20 as "Men's Health Week."

Besides the postal stamp unveiling, screenings and exhibits, other featured events will be the Jesse White Tumblers on Tuesday, the Truc Lam's Lion Dancers on Wednesday and an Illinois Father of the Year essay contest sponsored by the Chicago White Sox.

Illinois Department of Public Health 535 West Jefferson Street Springfield, Illinois 62761 Phone 217-782-4977 Fax 217-782-3987 TTY 800-547-0466 Questions or Comments