Thousands of people packed into an event designed to guide them towards a healthier lifestyle yesterday.

Advice on dieting, controlling asthma and dealing with mental health needs were among the services available at the annual Argus Health Fair at Number One Shed, in Front Street.

More than 30 health-related charities and organisations gave out tips while people were able to check out their blood pressure and cholesterol levels with free screenings.

It was aimed at targeting worrying levels of diabetes, obesity and other illnesses on the Island.

Queues stretched across the hall for some stalls as the public made the most of the occasion — and many said they found out vital information they now intended to act upon.

Ed Baker, 65, from Smith’s, said he discovered his blood pressure was higher than he thought.

“I’m glad I came,” said Mr. Baker. “Anything you can find out about your health is very useful. They told me I need to see my doctor.”

Waverley Minors, in her 40s, from Devonshire, had better news when she learned her cholesterol level was 178, short of the 200 figure considered to be too high.

“I thought my cholesterol would have been too high, but it was ok,” she said. “Just to know that is excellent.

“I had it tested a couple of years back and since then I have had to turn down cheese. I’m pleased it’s improved.

“It’s excellent that they have done a thing like this. It creates awareness because everyone should be concerned about their health.”

Mother-of-four Naomi Buckley, 49, from Smith’s, said she had learned some tips to keep her children’s health under control.

“I’ve picked up brochures on drugs and alcohol which should be helpful,” she said.

Gary Weller, vice president of marketing at Argus, was running the firm’s sugary drinks table, which demonstrated the sometimes hidden dangers of fruit punches and sodas.

Mr. Weller said there were 24 cubes of sugar in a 20-ounce bottle of fizzy orange, and 21 cubes in the same size bottle of blackcurrant.

Even some supposedly healthy water-based drinks contain three teaspoons of sugar for every eight ounces, he warned. Mr. Weller said: “People are somewhat amazed when they see how much sugar is in these drinks. It’s leading to a rise in obesity, heart disease and diabetes.”

Argus, Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB) and the Ministry of Health were joint organisers of the event. Acting Health Minister Senator Philip Perinchief helped perform the official opening of the day.

“Our motto at the Department of Health is ‘healthy people in healthy communities’ — I’m sure you’re all familiar with the jingle,” said Sen. Perinchief.

“We have been working to achieve our motto with the co-operation of the community.

“The Argus Health Fair is an excellent example of a collaborative effort to promote public health in our community.”

Argus CEO and president Gerald Simons said: “We believe that achieving optimal health is a goal that is attainable for every man, woman and child in Bermuda.

“It is vital that parents, schools, employers and community groups promote good health by encouraging a preventative, rather than reactive, approach to healthcare.”

BHB CEO David Hill said: “We see the Argus Health Fair as a precious opportunity to partner with organisations who share our passion for improving the health and wellness of Bermuda. It is a golden opportunity to break the cycle of many illnesses, by helping individuals make wise and healthy choices in their day-to-day life.”