Recognizing that a serious health gap exists between African Americans and the general public, September 24, 2002 has been declared national "Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day."

African Americans suffer disproportionately from many diseases. In Nassau County in 1999, the infant mortality rate for African Americans was almost triple that of Whites; African Americans are 44% more likely to die of diabetes. Nationally, African Americans are 30% more likely to die from cancer and heart disease and there is a major health disparity among HIV/AIDS infected African Americans compared to other races. Eliminating these disparities for African Americans, as well as for other racial and ethnic groups, is a major public health goal.

The Nassau County Department of Health and the Nassau Health Care Corporation (NHCC) will lead local efforts to encourage Nassau County residents to see their health care professionals.

On September 24, there will be special events at NHCC's community health centers, posters and flyers will be distributed at libraries, churches, local businesses and schools and ABC Radio will begin promoting the "Closing the Health Gap Campaign".

The Health Department and Nassau Health Care Corporation have developed a free flyer, "Close the Gap on Health Disparities - a Resource Guide" that lists organizations residents can call, write or e-mail in order to answer questions or make appointments to see a health care professional. The "Resource Guide" also lists questions individuals should ask their health care professional and offers other suggestions to make their medical check-up more productive for both patient and doctor.

"Take a Loved One to the Doctor Day" is the theme of a national campaign to be launched by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, along with ABC Radio Urban Advantage Network, aimed at encouraging individuals to take a loved one to the doctor and to get a check-up themselves. Remember that it is much easier and less costly to prevent an illness than treat it. It is also much easier to stay healthy than to be sick.

For additional information or for a copy of the flyer, "Close the Gap on Health Disparities - a Resource Guide", call the Nassau County Department of Health weekdays between 9:00am - 4:45 at (516) 571-1515.