LITHONIA—You can learn how to reduce the risks associated with chronic diseases such as cancer, heart attack, diabetes, and stroke at a free community forum that will include breakfast and lunch and free screenings. Health officials will discuss how improved nutrition and physical activity can help you live a better life.

The Jan. 16, event is sponsored by DeKalb County Commissioner Connie Stokes, the DeKalb County Board of Health’s Steps to a Healthier DeKalb, and the Lou Walker Senior Center.

"This program is so needed,"said Stokes. "New Year, New You offers an opportunity to jumpstart your year and focus on lifestyle changes such as reducing risks associated with chronic diseases and holistic-approaches that you can take to live longer, healthier lives."

More than 200 participants participated in last year’s forum. This year’s free event includes breakfast, lunch, education materials, and musical entertainment provided by The Georgia State University Jazz Band Ensemble. There will be screenings for blood pressure and Body Mass Index (BMI), giveaways and prevention messages on HIV as well as men’s health issues.

"By making real lifestyle changes such as increasing your physical activity, quitting smoking and eating more healthy foods, many African Americans can reduce their chances for getting cancer, diabetes and heart disease," said Dr. Leslie J. Richmond, acting District Health Director of the DeKalb County Board of Health. "At the New Year, New You event, we’ll discuss these chronic diseases and ways that people can become healthier in 2009."

The event will feature noted health experts, Dr. Leslie Richmond, M.B.A., and Dr. Ricks, Deputy Director of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Region IV as well as other medical experts. Stokes will serve as the moderator.

To register, contact the DeKalb County Board of Health at 404-294-3700.

If You Go

The 'New Year, New You' forum will be held Friday, Jan. 16, 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Lou Walker Senior Center, 2538 Panola Road, Lithonia.