The American Medical Student Association (AMSA) at American University of Antigua (AUA) and the Antigua Junior Chamber (JCI) Antigua sponsored the annual free health screening that took place during the health fair at the Multipurpose Cultural Centre on the AUA campus on Saturday, November 12th. The screening partnered with the AIDS Secretariat of Antigua to promote World AIDS Month and to raise awareness of the importance of HIV testing. Many people attended this year and crowded the center to participate.

Vital signs screenings including blood pressure, Body Mass Index (BMI), vision, and blood sugar levels were checked. Confidential HIV testing and counseling was offered at the health screening. Participants were able to speak with doctors and were advised about the results of the tests, their overall health, the role of diet and exercise in maintaining health, and any follow-up advised.

The annual screening assists underserved people and supports community-based medicine with the help and participation of JCI Antigua, the Lion’s Club, the AIDS Secretariat, Gender Affairs, the Society of Diabetes, Breast Friends, Antigua & Barbuda HIV/AIDS Network, the Rotary Club, and the Antigua Sickle Cell Association.