Students from the American Medical Student Association (AMSA) in RCSI recently held its second Health Screening Day in conjunction with the Irish Heart Foundation (IHF) and Boots Pharmacy in St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre.

Volunteers took blood pressure and blood glucose readings, as well as provided literature on lifestyle advice to the general public. Over 300 people came to have their blood pressures and blood glucose measured throughout the four-hour event.

The coordinators of the event were Lisa Torres and Katty Lofti. The event was made possible in part by a Local Project Grant awarded to the AMSA Chapter at RCSI by AMSA National. In addition, local pharmaceutical companies donated supplies necessary for the day.

The aim in providing the public with blood pressure screenings and glucose testing was to raise awareness about the importance of normal blood pressure and diet as factors in preventing heart attacks. The AMSA Chapter at RCSI provided this service to further public health. The students acted professionally and demonstrated the utmost standards of proficiency necessary to carry out this important public awareness event. They are grateful for the support provided by AMSA National and the IHF, which contributed to the success of the day.