The Program for the Elimination of Cancer Disparities (PECaD) at Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine and Siteman Cancer Center will host its 4th “Smart Health: Cancer Community Education Day” on Saturday, May 28, 2016 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Harris Stowe State University (Minority Serving Institution in the city of St. Louis). New this year, a second Smart Health event in East St. Louis, Illinois, will take place the following Saturday, June 4, 2016 from 10:00 a.m.-2 p.m. at East St. Louis Community College.
Smart Health was created to provide our community partners with deeper learning opportunities pertaining to cancer prevention and research, to use as a platform to report back on research results, and to educate individuals and families about research and its relevance. These events are designed to deliver intensive small group and one-on-one health education (consistent with Community Guide recommendations for increasing cancer screening) through small interactive workshops over the course of four hours. The workshop topics are jointly determined between community partners and PECaD’s community health educator.
At the most recent community education event, workshops included 8 ways to prevent cancer, cancer survivorship, a healthy cooking demonstration, exercise on a budget, and cancer screening recommendations. Our “Intro to Research” session provided an overview of research designs, questions to ask, and one-on-one discussions with a researcher. During the event, participants also had an opportunity to browse our research poster gallery, which displays research findings on specific cancer sites.
In previous years, Smart Health has primarily been centered on providing prevention and education information on colon cancer. We are extremely excited about hosting our 2016 Smart Health event because in addition to colon cancer, breast and prostate cancer will now become an integral aspect of Smart Health’s foundation. We recognize the need to inform the community on all three cancer sites and are committed to making an all-encompassing impact on the community in these efforts.
What is most gratifying is that attendees will have the opportunity to speak informally with physicians and other professionals during our “Meet the Expert” lunch. We will also have a panel discussion composed of cancer survivors, caregivers and doctors who will share their personal stories and take questions from participants.
This event is free to the community, and lunch will be provided. Return Metro passes will be available to those in need of transportation. Spaces are limited. To reserve your spot, contact PECaD by emailing pecad@wudosis.wustl.edu or calling (314) 747-4611.