More than 70 community members, healthcare partners, and local leaders gathered at Gateway Church in Oskaloosa on Tuesday, May 12th for a free cancer education presentation and discussion as part of the statewide Cancer in Iowa: 99 Counties Project. The event ran from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. and was also available to attend online.
The event was hosted by Mahaska Health in collaboration with the Iowa Cancer Registry and the University of Iowa College of Public Health. Mary Charlton, PhD, Director of the Iowa Cancer Registry and Professor of Epidemiology at the University of Iowa, led the presentation, which shared county-specific data on common cancer types, risk factors, and prevention strategies. A Mahaska Health physician panel followed with a local clinical perspective and answered questions from the audience.
Topics covered included some of the most common cancers affecting Mahaska County residents — breast, prostate, lung, colorectal, and uterine cancers — along with practical steps individuals and communities can take to reduce their cancer risk. Attendees also received radon test kits to take home.
“Cancer is an important health issue facing your county,” Charlton said. “There are proven tips for prevention and finding cancer early: consider your risk factors and get screened.”
Mahaska Health offers preventive screenings to help patients take a proactive approach to their health, noting that regular screenings can help detect potential cancers early when they may be easier to treat. Those interested in scheduling a screening or visiting with a Family Medicine provider can call 641-672-3360.
Mahaska Health extended its appreciation to the Iowa Cancer Registry, the University of Iowa College of Public Health, Gateway Church, participating providers, and all community members who attended.
