Black-owned barbershops represent a cultural institution that regularly attract a large number of Black men, providing them an environment of trust. This creates an opportunity to educate them about chronic diseases.

The Indiana Commission on the Social Status of Black Males (ICSSBM), along with hundreds of volunteers, sponsors, local commissions and community partners will be coordinating the Annual Indiana Black Barbershop Health Initiative for its tenth year. The goal is to enlighten African American men to better understand the potential risk factors in their health through screening and education.

Each Community on their scheduled Saturday will offer all customers free health screenings for blood glucose and blood pressure, as well as additional informational handouts on healthy lifestyles and exercise. By providing these free screenings we not only let the participants know their health risks are but also provide the resource material to get proper medical attention to address them.