With a few simple changes, you can live a healthier life right here in Mississippi.
And the best part?
Free coaching support is available to help.
With a few simple changes, you can live a healthier life right here in Mississippi.
And the best part?
Free coaching support is available to help.
You CAN live a healthier life in Mississippi
Free resources, tools and support are available to help you change your life for the better.
BETTER LIFE
DIABETES
HEART
TOBACCO
CANCER
MISSISSIPPI HEALTH SNAPSHOT
OBESITY
Mississippi ranks 43% higher than the national average for obesity.
HEART DISEASE
Heart Disease is the leading cause of death in Mississippi, accounting for over a third of all deaths in the state.
CANCER MORTALITY
The national average for cancer mortality per 100,000 people is 146 versus 180 in Mississippi, making it 23% higher than the average.
SMOKING
Mississippi ranks 29% higher than the national average for smoking.
DIABETES
Mississippi ranks 32% higher than the national average for diabetes.
Mississippians take immense pride in our culturally rich way of life, but we must recognize its effects on our health. While our state boasts vibrant cultures, delicious cuisine, and lively festivals, our lifestyle choices often rank us among the nation’s lowest for overall health. Mississippi holds the unfortunate distinction of leading in statistics for obesity, diabetes, heart disease, tobacco use, and other chronic illnesses.
I C.A.N. Mississippi, the chronic disease prevention and healthcare access initiative of the Mississippi State Department of Health, is leading the effort to tackle these challenges. By collaborating with community leaders, we aim to enhance our state’s health outcomes while preserving our valued traditions. Together, we can make healthy living the natural choice for all residents.
OUR VISION
The health of our communities profoundly influences every aspect of life, from academic success and workforce productivity to safety, life expectancy and even happiness. I C.A.N. Mississippi envisions a future where the burden of chronic disease is significantly reduced and quality healthcare is accessible to all Mississippians.
OUR MISSION
Empowering Mississippi Communities Towards Healthier Living
I C.A.N. fosters statewide collaboration and provides communities with the tools and support needed to enhance the health and well-being of our residents in every facet of life.
OUR APPROACH
Recognizing the multifaceted nature of health, we understand that individual behaviors, clinical care, socioeconomic factors, and the physical environment all significantly impact health outcomes. While promoting healthy behaviors, such as nutritious eating, physical activity, tobacco cessation, and regular healthcare visits, is crucial, we also emphasize the importance of creating environments that facilitate these choices. Health-promoting options must be easily accessible where people live, work, learn, play and worship.
The Mississippi State Department of Health offers workshops on managing chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer, designed for both those affected and caregivers. These include:
The I C.A.N. Diabetes Prevention Program is designed for individuals who are at risk of developing diabetes but do not have it yet. The program supports participants in making small, healthy adjustments to prevent type 2 diabetes.
The Heart Disease and Stroke program provides support, guidance and encouragement as participants monitor and record their blood pressure, giving them the tools to:
- Reduce high blood pressure
- Implement better blood pressure management
- Identify and control triggers that elevate blood pressure
- Develop healthier eating habits
When you get help, you’re twice as likely to quit for good. A personalized quit plan from the Office of Tobacco Control and feedback from a professional counselor will help you meet your goal faster.
The Mississippi Comprehensive Cancer Control Program covers everything from cancer prevention and screenings to treatment and survivorship. Programs include: