For some women, the inattention to ones health might mean simply not having enough time to squeeze in that Thursday appointment at the gym after work.

Thatssomewomen.

Not all women have the same opportunities, which is why West Virginia Universitys Department of Community Medicine is helping stage an outreach forum on health and wellness for African-American females on Aug. 26.

Sisters Committed to Better Healthis the name of the gathering that will be from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. that day at Morgantowns St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church.

The Presidents Office for Social Justice at WVU is co-sponsoring the event, along with the State Health Education Council of West Virginia.

Dr. Ruth Kershner, a WVU community health specialist, said theres a definite correlation between social justice and sit-ups.

Advances have been made in the causes of health and women,Kershner said.But the truth is, if youre a black woman in this country, youre going to sometimes have barriers.

Barriers, she said, that can be addressedwith help and increased knowledge among community and health care professionals specific to the population being served.

Megan Shope, a graduate student in public health who is helping organize the event, agrees.

A lot of the day will be about awareness,Shope said.Were going to look at why those barriers Dr. Kershner is talking about are there. Its about health, and its about economics and its about culture.

Ideally, Shope says, it will also be about eventual results.

Were going to ask ourselves,How can we work for equal health for all?Then, hopefully, were going go out and do just that.

Theres no charge to attend, and the day also includes snacks, beverages, a catered lunch, door prizes and other giveaways. A special performance is also scheduled by theFlying Colorschoir of Scotts Run Settlement House, a Monongalia County outreach agency.

To register and for more information, contact Shope at meganshope@gmail.com or 304-291-3234.