Forum for men coming to Free State

The Y Factor, a health forum for men over 40, is taking place in Bloemfontein on Saturday 14th March 2009 at the Protea Hotel, Bloemfontein Central. This forum, sponsored by Lilly, will aim to provide the answers to some of your health and wellness concerns.

This workshop will provide a platform for men to access critical health information that could change their outlook on life and relationships for the better. In addition, this health forum aims to increase awareness of specific age-related health concerns. Men are invited to take advantage of the complimentary health screening tests. Thereafter, discussions will be hosted by healthcare experts, with topics being covered including stress, cardiovascular health risks, prostate issues, diabetes, hypertension, erectile dysfunction and obesity.

“Lilly focuses on answers that matter, and we believe that it is our responsibility to host these platforms to engage in an informal relaxed environment about health topics which should be of concern. This forum will educate men on health risks and the benefit of early detection and treatment options,” says Jacques Blaauw, Managing Director of Lilly South Africa, the main sponsor of this event.

Men are notorious for not going to the doctor when they ought to. A survey conducted in the UK in 2005 suggested that men develop attitudes that do not help foster their health. They give priority to work and have a self image that encourages denial of illness. They do not like to discuss their health and fear the consequences of illness more than women do. In this day and age, “better safe than sorry” has never been more relevant.

The health screening tests that will be conducted on the day include blood glucose, cholesterol, Body Mass Index and blood pressure. Results will be made available while they wait.

These tests will enable men to gauge some aspects of their current health there and then. In addition, they will be able to share their results with their doctor, during their next visit.

Guest speaker for the morning will be Os Du Randt who will talk about the ups and downs of his profession and share how he kept himself motivated throughout his career. Os retired from international rugby two years ago and is one of only six players globally to have won two World Cups. Os will be signing autographs after his presentation.

Right of admission to The Y Factor is reserved, and seats will be allocated to the first 400 delegates registered. Health risk screening tests will take place between 09H00 and 10H00 for the first 200 delegates.

Men who would like to secure their place at The Y Factor Forum can SMS YFACTOR9, their full name and age to 33009. A response SMS will serve as confirmation of their attendance.

Attendance at The Y Factor Forum will put you back in the driving seat, empowering you to pro-actively manage your health and relationships.

All men who attend the workshops nationally this year will stand in line to win a romantic 36 hour weekend away, for some that “second honeymoon” they have been postponing.

For any additional information, contact:
Leigh Hopewell - The Write Agency
011 467 5368 /

Summary of event:
What: The Y Factor - Health Forum for Men
Where: Protea Hotel, Bloemfontein Central, Bloem Plaza, East Burger Street
When: Saturday 14th March 2009, 10H00 - 12H00 (Health check screening will be conducted from 09H00 - 10H00)
Register: SMS YFACTOR9, your full name and age to 33009. Seats limited to 400.