A groundbreaking study reveals that one-third of adults in public housing smoke cigarettes—double the national rate. Smokers in federal housing assistance programs face significantly higher risks of chronic disease, disability, and poor health outcomes. These findings highlight housing assistance programs as critical venues for implementing evidence-based tobacco prevention and smokefree policies.
The American Cancer Society is offering grants up to $100,000 to five organizations implementing colorectal cancer screening projects in American Indian and Alaska Native communities. The formal RFA releases this spring. Interested organizations must submit a Letter of Interest by February 28, 2017, to spo@cancer.org.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered that prostate shape and transitional zone characteristics differ significantly between cancerous and healthy prostates on MRI scans. This shape-based imaging biomarker remained consistent across five medical institutions using different equipment, potentially offering a reliable diagnostic tool less sensitive to imaging variability.
Despite 2013 recommendations for lung cancer screening among high-risk smokers, uptake remained stagnant at 3.9% in 2015. Of 6.8 million eligible Americans, only 262,700 received screening. Researchers attribute low adoption to inadequate knowledge among patients and clinicians, emphasizing urgent need for public education.
Cervical cancer claims over 4,100 American lives annually. The FDA-approved Gardasil 9 vaccine protects against nine HPV types, preventing approximately 90% of cervical cancers. Combined with regular Pap tests, vaccination offers powerful protection. Women aged 9-26 can benefit from this preventive strategy.
Life-extending hormonal therapies like tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors can prevent breast cancer recurrence, yet many survivors don't receive them or use them incorrectly. Research shows that proper adherence could save nearly 15,000 lives over a decade, highlighting a critical gap in cancer treatment protocols.
A landmark University of Michigan study reveals e-cigarette use quadruples the likelihood of subsequent cigarette smoking among teens. Researchers found vaping desensitizes youth to smoking risks—even nicotine-free e-cigarettes produce this effect, challenging industry claims about safer alternatives.
Thirdhand smoke exposure harms developing mice, reducing weight and altering immune cell counts associated with inflammation and allergies. Researchers at Berkeley Lab found persistent blood cell changes even weeks after exposure ended, suggesting lingering dangers from cigarette residue on indoor surfaces for vulnerable infants and toddlers.
A groundbreaking Health Affairs study reveals the ACA's remarkable impact: an 8% increase in early-stage colorectal cancer diagnoses among seniors within two years. The research estimates 8,400 additional early-stage diagnoses, demonstrating how expanded Medicare coverage transformed cancer screening accessibility and detection rates for millions of older Americans.
A new study reveals cervical cancer death rates are significantly higher than previously estimated, with Black women dying at rates comparable to women in developing nations. Despite effective screening and prevention methods, healthcare disparities, limited access to care, and insurance gaps perpetuate this troubling racial inequality in outcomes.
Attending any of these upcoming events? Have other events to share? Let us know! Email us at NNN@ITCMI.ORG to share your event information or to get on our list serve for event updates.
Association of American Indian Physicians 2026 54th Annual Meeting and National Health Conference | Okana Resort & Indoor Waterpark | Deadline to reserve hotel: 8/17/2026 | LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
Michigan Premier Public Health Conference | Blue Water Convention Center, Port Huron, Michigan | LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
37th Annual Art & Science of Health Promotion Conference | Saddlebrook Resort, Tampa, Florida | LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
National Conference on Tobacco or Health (NCTOH) | San Diego, California | Registration will open July 7, 2026 | Abstract Submissions will open on August 4 | LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
National Conference on Tobacco or Health | The National Network of Public Health Institutes is excited to announce the start of registration for the next National Conference on Tobacco or Health (NCTOH), June 29 - July 1, 2027 in San Diego, CA. | Questions: nctoh@nnphi.org | LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
