Community news briefs for May 1, 2000

Monday, May 1, 2000 | 10:06 a.m.

Free surgery for those in need

Free cataract surgery for those who can't afford it will be available in May as part of Mission Cataract USA, a nationwide project involving hundreds of eye surgeons throughout the United States.

Eye tests will be given locally 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at the Shearing-Westfield Eye Institute by appointment only. The screening will determine those candidates with cataracts and financial need.

Eligible candidates will receive an eye exam and will be scheduled for cataract surgery. The surgeries will be performed at the American Surgery Center and include lens implants and all follow-up care.

Anyone who is visually impaired and has financial need can call 362-3937, Ext. 238 to make an appointment.

Breast, cervical exams scheduled

Members of the National Black Leadership Initiative on Cancer and the staff of Women's Health Connection are providing free breast and cervical cancer exams 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday at the Vons market, 1061 W. Owens Ave.

The organization said black women are dying unnecessarily at an alarming rate from breast and cervical cancer because of late diagnosis and/or treatment.

Black women have a higher breast cancer death rate than women of any other racial or ethnic population. Early detection of breast cancer has a five-year survival rate of approximately 97 percent. For more information call 671-2379.

Children 8-13 invited to attend

The Nevada Diabetes Association for Children and Adults is sponsoring Camp Vegas, a new NDACA camp for children with diabetes, in addition to Camp Buck, Camp D.J. and Family Camp.

Camp Vegas, to be held May 19-21 for children ages 8-13, is an opportunity for children to spend a fun-filled weekend and learn about diabetes management.

Dr. Henry Artman, along with a staff of dieticians, nurses and other diabetes care specialists, will be on hand to oversee the medical program.

Space is limited. The cost for the camp program is $70. Camperships are available for all NDACA camps. For more information or brochure and application, call 989-1165.

Tests to be done Saturday at library

Adults and children who experience breathing problems, such as coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath, can find out if asthma is taking their breath away at a free screening 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday at the West Charleston Library, 6301 W. Charleston Blvd.

For more information call 822-2444.