Kentucky as a state has the highest prevalence of multiple forms of cancer in the United States, with many Kentuckians having additional risk factors including obesity, inactivity, and barriers to health screenings and other forms of preventative healthcare. Additionally, many people report low levels of knowledge and skills related to being able to make healthy lifestyle choices, like eating a wide variety of healthy foods, getting enough physical activity, and understanding warning signs of illness.

In June 2024, the Fayette County Extension Office hosted the Be Healthy Bash, in collaboration with UK Healthcare’s Healthy Kentucky Initiative. Over 50 vendors set up educational booths demonstrating healthy choices and providing many beneficial health services. UK Healthcare, along with the UK Colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dentistry provided 16 different types of health screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol, cancer screenings, oral hygiene services, eye exams, and many more. Preventative vaccines were offered, as well as sports physicals. Over 700 individuals participated in the event, with over 250 preventative health services rendered. Additionally, the Fayette County Extension Staff offered healthy cooking demonstrations, tastings, physical activities, and information on water consumption. While the event had a regional impact, it was profoundly impactful for the residents of the neighborhood in which it was situated. Multiple individuals reported this event being particularly beneficial due to the close proximity to their homes, and offering meaningful services not typically available or affordable.