ATHENS, Ohio -- In an effort to raise awareness for WellWorks Wellness Center's blood pressure campaign, "What's Your Number?" Ohio University deans and vice presidents will participate in a special kick-off blood pressure screening from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 23, in the East Lobby of Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium.

The wellness center's trained volunteers will conduct the screening and provide participants with result specific information as well as heart-healthy snacks. The kick-off is intended to demonstrate the importance of blood pressure screenings to the university's faculty and staff.

"Good health is important to all of us and thus preventative medicine is a must," Ohio University President Robert Glidden said. "I encourage everyone in the university to take advantage of this opportunity."

Beginning Jan. 29, the university's faculty and staff will have the opportunity to learn one of the most important numbers for good health: their blood pressure. WellWorks will be visiting more than 50 locations on campus in an effort to screen at least 60 percent of Ohio University employees twice before June 2002. Because of the variability of blood pressure, WellWorks urges employees to return for a second screening later in the year to ensure consistency of blood pressure readings.

Ohio University's WellWorks Wellness Center aims to provide a variety of opportunities for Ohio University employees, their families and community participants to enhance their health and well being. WellWorks also provides a stimulating environment where students can combine academics with experiential learning.