Minority Health Fair

Several health sciences and UW programs have joined to present the Minority Health and Health Disparities Fair at the Health Sciences Center this weekend. On Friday, May 11, at 2 p.m. Dr. Ben Carson, neurosurgeon and popular speaker, will give a presentation in Hogness Auditorium. From noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, there will be health screenings, exhibits and prizes for participants. These events are free and open to the public.

Communications seminars

The Health Sciences Center for Educational Resources is offering several seminars this quarter, including three sessions-basic, intermediate and advanced-on Dreamweaver, a Web development tool. There is also a session on PowerPoint for multimedia presentations. For a full schedule, call 685-1157 or see the Web site at http://www.hscer.washington.edu/csseminars/

Harborview staff campaign

The Harborview Staff Campaign, which encourages staff and faculty to make a donation to support Harborview Medical Center, hopes to raise more than $175,000 this year. The annual effort, launched May 1, seeks funds to directly support projects and programs that enhance patient care. Staff Campaign co-chairs are Dr. Ken Steinberg, associate professor of medicine, and Kari Kovach Perry, program manager of pulmonary and critical care. For more information or contribution forms, see the Web site at http://www.washington.edu/medical/hmc/dev/sc/index.html

Melatonin study

Women between 18 and 40 are invited to participate in a research study of melatonin and body temperature biorhythm sponsored by the UW Center for Women’s Health Research. Participants will collect samples of urine for a day, and temperature will be recorded continuously. Participants must be in good health and must not use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication daily, have severe vision impairment, have been treated for depression within the past two years, or be taking melatonin or beta blocker medication. Participants should not be working night shift, be pregnant or have been pregnant in the last year. Participants who complete the study will be paid $100. Call Dr. Karen Thomas at 206-543-8231.

Men’s health study

Men with a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are needed for a School of Nursing study of symptom experiences. The study includes a screening by phone, completion of a two-week health diary, and questionnaires that take about an hour at home. Participants receive up to $40 for completing the diary and questionnaires. Call Beth at 206-221-2358.