Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Mississippi, accounting for about one in every five deaths.
On average, each year, about 16,000 new cases are reported and 6,500 people die of cancer in Mississippi.
Most Cancers Are Preventable
- 60% of all cancers are preventable. About one-third of cancer deaths are linked to lifestyle factors that you can control: diet, physical activity, and weight.
- Medical checkups can make a difference. Regular screening exams can result in early detection and treatment of cancers of the breast, colon, rectum, cervix, prostate, testes, oral cavity and skin.
- Everyone is at risk of developing cancer, but especially older adults. Over three quarters of all cancers are diagnosed at age 55 and older.
What We're Doing
The fight against cancer will not be won without a comprehensive approach to coordinate the many cancer control and prevention efforts on the state. Our program is building a comprehensive, statewide cancer control plan like that in other states. Its goal is to have communities pool resources to encourage healthy lifestyles, promote cancer screenings, and improve cancer care.
Become a Partner
The Mississippi Partnership for Comprehensive Cancer Control (MP3C) is a group of individuals and organizations working together to create a statewide cancer plan and make a difference in the lives of Mississippians. Over 100 members have joined and participate in a coalition of workgroups to create and implement the state comprehensive cancer control plan. You are cordially invited to participate in one of five workgroups that carry this work forward.
Resources
- Fact Sheets: Major cancers and state overview
- Lifestyle-related cancer reports UMMC Reports from the Mississippi Cancer Registry on cancers related to obesity, physical activity, alcohol, tobacco and HPV
- Cancer Resources for the Public
- Cancer Resources for Providers
Programs and Planning
- The Guide to Community Preventive Services ("The Community Guide")
- Implementation Science
- Research Tested Intervention Programs (RTIPs)
Catherine Young
Director, MSDH Comprehensive Cancer Control Program
Catherine.Young@msdh.ms.gov
Phone: 601‑206‑1010
