DETROIT -- The seventh-annual Health Expo was held Monday to focus on getting the hundreds of thousands of uninsured adults and children insured.

Statistics show one out of every eight people in Michigan don't have insurance.

An estimated 6,000 people attended the day-long community event, held in Detroit's Cobo Hall. And organizers said community participation has gone up every single year.

Cobo Hosts Annual Health Expo

"If it's free, it's for me," said metro Detroiter Artis Coney, who added he was grateful for the free simple tests for blood pressure, cholesterol and even bone density.

Detroiter Kim Wilson has not had health insurance for the past seven years. These events are important to her.

"How else are you supposed to get health care? We come to these things right here. These are out health care. This is my doctor right now," she said.

More than 100 exhibitors were there offering their services ranging from health insurance, free or low-cost health screenings, information on primary care and mental health services.

Deanella Denny said she can't afford trips to the doctor so she relies on home remedies and over-the-counter medicines. Denny said she takes advantage of the free screenings at the fair because it's the least she can do.

The recession and rising number of uninsured Michigan residents is hitting hard at hospitals. In the past three years, Michigan hospitals have seen a 68 percent increase in uncompensated care.

Ife Johnson of Project Healthy Living says Michigan residents without insurance need to know that help is available. "If they can't go somewhere, then we help them find a location that will see them for little or no cost," Johnson said.

For information on the Michigan Cover the Uninsured Network call 313-874-1677 or www.covertheuninsured.org and click on Michigan.