MADISON — Boone Memorial Hospital (BMH) will host its annual Health Fair Friday, Oct. 5, according to hospital officials.

The event will be held at the Madison Civic Center from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will conclude one hour earlier this year than in previous years.

“Each year, the Health Fair brings in anywhere betweein 500 to 700 guests, over 65 vendors and several event sponors,” said Karlie Belle Price, BMH Event Coordinator. “Without support from the local businesses, community organizations and individuals, the Health Fair would not exist. We thank everyone for their support.”

This year’s theme is ‘C.O.A.L. – Come Out And Learn.’ Volunteers, guests and vendors are encouraged to decorate their tables with coal related items to celebrate the them.

“You are also welcome to dress the part,” Price said. “Once again, we will give an award for the most creative and decorative table and also for the best dressed. There will be prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place.”

The fair will offer discounted blood work, vitamin D testing, flu shots, depression screenings, chiropractic evaluations, cancer prevention education, medication reviews and much more, according to Price.

“Approximately 65 vendors, including local healthcare organizations and community groups, will be on-hand to take blood pressures, provide diabetic and tobacco cessation information, offer breast cancer education including how to receive free and, or, half price mammograms at BMH using the new digital mammography equipment,” she said.

Price said prizes will be awarded every 15-30 minutes and free food will be served. “A cooking show, led by the BMH Dietary Director, Richard Holliday and his staff, will be held at various times throughout the day,” she added. “You can learn simple steps to make healthier foods at this fun, interactive cooking show and enjoy mouth-watering food.”

Price said the event is a wonderful way to create more awareness about health care issues and services in the local community.

“With everyone’s support, we can continue to meet the healthcare needs in our area,” she said.

For more information, please contact Price at 304-437-1572, or Kevin Hill, 304-369-1230, Ext. 407.

“We look forward to seeing you at the 2012 BMH Health Fair!” Price said.