MASON COUNTY — With several options existing for local medical care, staff from the Mason County Health Department has been gathering information and support for the first Mason County Health Symposium to spread the word on all the locally available resources.

Set from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 23 at the National Guard Armory on Route 62, just north of Point Pleasant, the symposium will feature health-related services that are free and available for local residents, including services from Pleasant Valley Hospital and Holzer Health System.

According to health department staff, these health care providers will be offering services including breast cancer exams, prostate cancer exams, cholesterol and glucose blood tests, blood pressure and body mass index determinations, and orthotic scans, as well as offering information on other health-related problems such as cardiovascular and pulmonary health and other local cancer resources.

“We wanted to bring together all the resources in the county so people would be aware of the many resources that we do have,” said Diana Riddle of the Mason County Health Department.

In addition to the services offered by these local hospitals, other organizations and support groups will be offering information on dental care, lead poisoning, hepatitis, alcohol and drug abuse and bullying. Presentations will include “Healthy Cooking” by Holzer Health System and “Safety in Your Home Kitchen” by the Bureau of Public Health. There will also be several exercise demonstrations including activities for all ages. Events will include a jump rope demonstration, Zumba dancing, children dance and belly dancing.

Other services and information will be available on domestic violence, healthy nutrition, advanced directives, emergency preparedness, pre-natal and infant care, emergency care, diabetes screening, care seat safety, food safety, sports safety, osteoporosis, tobacco prevention, home medical supplies, drunk driving, epilepsy, bicycle safety, hepatitis, organ donation, Andrea’s Law and literacy. Residents can also bring a medication list to be reviewed by a pharmacist.

Riddle also stated those wishing to receive a prostate exam at the symposium should call the health department at 304-675-3050 to schedule it.