The Health Trust today announced it will be the presenting sponsor of an astounding exhibit on human anatomy, physiology and health that will be on display at The Tech Museum of Innovation for four months this fall and winter.

BODY WORLDS 2 & The Three Pound Gem, Gunther von Hagens' Anatomical Exhibition of Real Human Bodies opens at The Tech on Sept. 27, 2007. It is the Northern California debut of the exhibit that has been viewed by more than 20 million people in the world, including a dozen major cities in the U.S.

"This innovative exhibit is an extraordinary opportunity for the people of this community to learn more about the complexities of the human body. That knowledge will help visitors to the exhibit have a better understanding of how to take care of themselves, prevent health issues, and enjoy wellness throughout their lives," said Todd Hansen, acting Chief Executive Officer of The Health Trust.

Since 1996 The Health Trust has been a leader in increasing and improving health and wellness in Silicon Valley, especially for individuals and communities that do not have access to the health-related services and resources they need. The bold new vision of The Health Trust -- to make Silicon Valley the healthiest region in America -- will be supported by three new focus areas for the organization: preventing obesity, promoting healthy aging, and reducing health disparities.

"In researching the impact BODY WORLDS 2 has had on visitors to the exhibit in other areas, we found a common reaction was increased awe and reverence for our bodies. It has a profound effect on people," said Bern Shen, M.D., chair of the Board of Trustees of The Health Trust. "Our goal is to lead the transformation of Silicon Valley into a region that promotes and supports the health and well-being of everyone who lives here. We believe this exhibit is an excellent way to launch our new strategic focus and to increase awareness among thousands of individuals of the possibilities for improved physical and mental health."

Visitors attending the exhibit at The Tech will see more than 200 real human body specimens, including more than 20 whole bodies, all of which have been preserved through a remarkable process called Plastination, invented by physician and anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens. Viewing comparisons of healthy and unhealthy organs vividly show how a human body is affected by disease and lifestyle choices.

Hansen said The Health Trust will be offering several educational activities in conjunction with the BODY WORLDS 2 exhibit to provide the public with more information about health issues and specific steps that can be taken by individuals, families, and communities to prevent disease and enhance their wellness.

"The Health Trust is the ideal presenting sponsor for this exhibit, and a great partner for what we are trying to accomplish at The Tech," said Peter Friess, President of The Tech. "Our collaboration will not only ensure a successful exhibition, it will have a significant, long-lasting impact on the community as people incorporate what they learn here about their bodies into their daily life choices. We look forward to working closely with The Health Trust on this and other projects in the future."