Capital Area Transportation Authority will provide a variety of health screenings during its Rush Hour Health Fair 2001 today.

The event will be held for the third time at the CATA Transportation Center, 420 S. Grand Ave., in Lansing from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Because CATA transports thousands daily, the public transportation provider decided to give back to its customers and local residents with a health fair during rush hour times.

“We are interested in doing community service,” said Pat Gilbert, CATA marketing director. “People can benefit by easily being able to assess the event so hosting it just seems like a neighborly thing to do.”

Many local health affiliated organizations will be on hand to give out health and safety information. Medical students from the MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine will also administer blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol checks.

“We are screening people in the community for diabetes or other health risks so they can see a doctor if there is a possible health problem,” said Matthew Benedix, a second- year osteopathic medical student.

Benedix, who is secretary of Community Integrated Medicine Student Association at MSU, said the association takes part in many health screenings to raise people’s awareness about their own health.

“It’s a good way to promote the college and get involved in the community,” he said.

Other screenings will include bone density, blood pressure, vision, flexibility and strength. McLaren Home Care in Flint will administer flu shots during the afternoon while supplies last.

All screenings are free except for flu shots which are $15, but are free for those who have Medicare, Medicaid or a PHP card.

“We tried to get a mix of services available to folks,” said Pam Latka, CATA’s marketing assistant. “The event has been very successful in the past for the greater Lansing area residents.”

MSU students may take bus route one along Grand River Avenue or route 15 by the Brody Complex to get to the fair.