(Atlantic, IA) — The Healthy Cass County Coalition is inviting community members, organizations, and local leaders to attend the Coalition’s upcoming meeting, “Cancer in Cass County: Learning the Facts and Taking Action Together.” The meeting takes place beginning at noon, on Monday, January 12th, at the Cass County Community Center.

Cass County currently ranks number one in Iowa for new cancer incidence rates, making education, prevention, and early detection a critical priority for the community. During this meeting, Cass Health will present local cancer data, share information on screening efforts, and discuss community strategies that can help address cancer risk and improve health outcomes across the county. Cass Health Cancer Action Plan Team Chair Ann McCurdy says “While the statistics are concerning, we know that we have a community willing to take action. By understanding local cancer trends, promoting prevention strategies, and encouraging screenings, we can work together to make an impact on cancer in Cass County.”

The discussion will focus on what the data tells us about cancer in Cass County and how individuals, families, businesses, and organizations can play a role in prevention and early detection. Topics will include the importance of screenings, healthy lifestyle behaviors linked to cancer prevention, and ways community partnerships can support long-term impact.

Healthy Cass County meetings are open to the public and designed to foster collaboration among community members, service providers, schools, businesses, and local organizations. Attendees are encouraged to join the conversation, ask questions, and explore opportunities to work together to reduce cancer risk in Cass County. Community members are encouraged to attend and share their perspectives. Attendees are also welcome to extend this invitation to others who promote, produce, or sell locally sourced food, as food access and nutrition play an important role in cancer prevention and overall health. For more information, to sign up for Healthy Cass County updates, or to get involved, please contact Grace McAfee at mcage@casshealth.org or call 712-250-8170.

**********

About the Healthy Cass Coalition: The Healthy Cass Coalition is dedicated to improving the health and wellness of Cass County residents by fostering community collaboration and supporting local initiatives. Through partnerships and community engagement, the coalition addresses key issues like food security, mental wellness, and overall public health.