While Selma residents are contemplating a way to express their affection for their Valentine Friday, Vaughn Community Health Services is preparing a health screening that will allow residents to love their partner with a healthy heart.

Vaughn Community Health Services is hosting a free Heart Health Screening from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday at the Vaughn Place Conference Center on 1300 Old Orrville Road. The organization will provide a screening for blood pressure, weight, body mass index, blood glucose level and total cholesterol, along with general health information.

“This community has health issues that are far greater than other areas of Alabama,” Health Link director Kathi Needham said. “Dallas County really does have a great need to improve its health.”

Community health educator Karen Morris said the health screening is an excellent opportunity for people to learn their health status, so they understand which health concerns they should address their doctor about.

“I think the number one priority is to take care of ourselves, and find out what the issues are,” Morris said. “It’s just a good advantage to get all this done free.”

Morris said the screening procedure only takes about 10 to 15 minute to complete and participates would be able to get the results at the event.

“We don’t want to hear any excuses about why you’re eating what you’re eating, or why you’re not exercising,” Morris said. “We are going to encourage you to eat healthy and to exercise more.”

Morris said the event is meant to bring awareness about personal health issues, but those that get tested must take it a step further by adopting a healthier lifestyle that would benefit them.

“We can’t be with you to encourage that everyday. All we can do is take it with the information you get, encourage you to change your lifestyle,” Morris said. “That’s up to the individual if they are going to make those choices or not.”

For more information, contact Vaughn Community Health Services at 872-3303.