On Sunday, Oct.. 30, neurosurgeons from the Banner – University Medicine Neuroscience Institute will be performing free neurological exams, blood pressure screenings, and engaging with the community about misconceptions around neurological issues and how they disproportionately affect Hispanic people.
The Dia de los Muertos educational event for neurological issues will be from 2 to 7 p.m. at Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road.
The Hispanic population, which is expected to almost double by 2050, is one of the largest subpopulations living with epilepsy and has suffered a significant increase in death rates due to stroke since 2013. In addition, Hispanics face health disparities due to less access to care and specialists.
“Banner Health is dedicated to improving the neurosurgical health of all patients,” said Dr. Peter Nakaji, physician executive of neurosurgery at Banner Health and physician executive director of the Banner – University Medicine Neuroscience Institute. “This much-needed event is intended to improve outreach and access, and will address the need to increase understanding of preventive health through better education and easier access to health care in an effort to lower the number of stroke-related deaths in the Hispanic community.”
Nakaji, along with doctors Michaela Lee and Robert Bina, will be present at the event and there will also be an altar to honor family members and loved ones who have passed away from neurological conditions.
Free blood pressure screenings will be offered from 2 to 4 p.m. Neurological exams will take place from 3 to 4 p.m.
