Monitoring your general health couldn't be more convenient or inexpensive, thanks to Campus Recreation, organizers of our 12th Annual Spring Health Fair, which includes blood tests, various health-care screenings and more. New this year is an area designed to help you identify your current level of fitness.

Spring Health Fair 2005 is set for Tuesday, April 12, with a follow-up morning for blood tests on Wednesday, April 13, to allow for as many early-morning appointments as possible. Beginning at 10 a.m., March 22, you can call 6511 to make an appointment.

For a modest charge, Cookeville Regional Medical Center staff members will draw blood for the following tests: lipid profile ($5), prostate specific antigen ($11), and a comprehensive chemistry profile ($15). Both the lipid and comprehensive chemistry profile require 12- to 14-hour fasting to ensure accurate results. CRMC will also be giving bone density screenings.

All day Tuesday, both gyms are devoted to health tests, screenings, and exhibits by area health-care providers and advocates, including the American Cancer Society, which will offer information on the early detection of cancer, and Atnip Chiropractors, which will give posture screenings.

A number of our own faculty, staff and students are participating, too. The School of Nursing is providing blood pressure checks, and Health Services is offering free glucose screenings. Staff with the Fitness Center's Health Promotions Office are giving free neck massages from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., as well as fitness assessments. Dining Services will be on hand with information on portion sizes in the cafeteria.

Throughout the day, door prizes will be given out, including gift certificates from local restaurants and assorted products donated by area businesses. Some exhibitors will be offering products for sale and free or minimal-cost services.

Depending on what time of day you plan to attend, you can take advantage of inexpensive breakfast or lunch choices. And with a shuttle service available from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., you can also get a free ride to and from the Fitness Center. Visit the Fitness Center's Spring Health Fair web site for a shuttle schedule and more.

Health Fair 2005 is open to the entire campus community, plus dependents, spouses, retirees and alumni. Supervisors are encouraged to arrange work schedules to allow everyone the opportunity to attend, and faculty are encouraged to inform students about this opportunity. The Fitness Center recommends that you set aside up to two hours for blood and other health screenings, a tour of exhibits and lunch.

Questions? Call 6511 or 6508.