Back-to-School Supply Drive
Minority Health • July 22, 2025
Back-to-School Supply Drive
Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health and Word and Worship Church have partnered to help area children get ready for school!
Our epidemiologist, Warren Jones, continues to make us proud! He was a featured speaker at the Prostate Cancer Awareness Month press conference at the Mississippi State Capitol. He shared insights on the importance of knowing your family history and getting screened early. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among men, and Black men are more than twice as likely to die from it compared to their white counterparts. Men, don’t wait! Go get checked. Talk with your doctor about prostate cancer screening today!
JACKSON, Miss. ( WJTV ) – Jackson Mayor John Horhn declared September 2025 as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. According to health officials, prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among men in the United States, with African American men disproportionately affected. This month, the city will join local organizations and health partners in raising awareness about the importance of early detection, regular screenings and prostate health education. “The health of our community is a top priority. By coming together to raise awareness about prostate cancer, we can save lives through education, early detection, and support. Jackson is ready to lead by example this September,” Horhn said. Some community events have been planned throughout September: September 25 at 6:00 p.m. – Community Awareness Forum at MS Baptist Hospital, Belhaven Building, 1200 N. State Street, Room 220 September 28 – Prostate Cancer Sunday, acknowledged during morning worship services in churches across Jackson, encouraging male representatives to speak about early PSA screening Residents are encouraged to wear blue during the month to show solidarity and support for men’s health.
The third annual conference at Tougaloo College focused on breaking down barriers to care with workshops, free screenings, and open conversations about health equity for Black men. The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health hosted its third annual Black Men’s Health Equity Conference this weekend at Tougaloo College, drawing community members, faith leaders, and policymakers to address the well-being of Black men across Mississippi. The event, held at the Bennie G. Thompson Academic and Civil Rights Research Center, featured conversations on mental health, chronic disease prevention, financial literacy, environmental justice, and even climate change. “It’s all about preventative health for Black men across the state of Mississippi,” said Warren Jones, an epidemiologist with the Institute. “This conference is important to acknowledge the disparities and come up with strategies to help men live healthier lives.” In addition to workshops and networking opportunities, free health screenings were offered to support early detection and prevention. Mississippi Public Service Commissioner DeKeither Stamps took part, encouraging others to do the same. “I got all my tests done. It’s critically important that you know your numbers and how to keep them low,” Stamps said. “If you have any negatives, there are professionals here to guide you.” Organizers say the conference provides a safe space for men to ask questions and learn directly from health experts. “There are no dumb questions,” said Mac Epps, CEO of the Epps Institute of Health and Family Community Living. “Events like these give you information you can’t always find online.” Leaders hope the annual event will continue breaking down barriers to care and encourage men to take charge of their health. They also stress the importance of regular screenings and staying connected with local resources.