The American Cancer Society in Columbia, S. C.; Brookland Baptist Church; and Palmetto Health will present the first annual South Carolina African American Men’s Health Forum entitled “Taking Care of the Man in the Mirror” Saturday, February 4, 2012, at Brookland Banquet and Conference Center, 1066 Sunset Boulevard,

West Columbia, SC 29169 from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Breakfast (begins at 7 a.m.) and lunch are provided.

According to the American Cancer Society, African American men have higher rates of cancer and other chronic diseases than men of other races. “Taking Care of the Man in the Mirror” is planned as a way to raise awareness about health issues affecting

African American men.

“Our goal is to help men better understand and be proactive about their health,” said Columbia accountant and businessman Dr. Gary E. Bell, DHA., who serves as cochair of the event, along with Wendell Price. “ We have highly- regarded African American health speakers, informational displays, and free screenings. We want men throughout the state to attend. We would love to see groups and churches bring in buses from their area,” Bell said.

The free conference provides informative, interactive sessions on topics including diabetic, prostate, and colon health. Caregiving support, overall disease prevention, and early detection and prevention of cancer are program focuses. A special session for young men 12- 18 years old will address teen pregnancy prevention from a male perspective.

Racial and ethnic minorities are expected to account for a disproportionate number of cancer deaths this year. African American men, in particular, have a 20 percent higher incidence rate and a 40 percent higher death rate from all cancer combined than white men. The proportion of African Americans who are diagnosed with more advanced stages of cancer is also higher.

The conference is organized by the American Cancer Society and cosponsored by Palmetto Health with Brookland Baptist Church.

Registration is free to the first 500 men who preregister by calling 877-277- 9398.