Did you know that poor oral health can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections? Keeping your mouth healthy is more than just a bright smile—it's crucial for your overall health. Our CHIN expert, Dr. Debra Munsell shares critical information on developing and maintaining good oral health habits. Tip: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent cavities.

Approximately 345,500 adults in Mississippi, or 15.3% of the adult population, have been diagnosed with diabetes. Britney Kersh, DNP, FNP-C, Family Nurse Practitioner at Greater Meridian Health Clinic, says, “Diabetes is a dangerous long-term chronic disease that causes disability. It can lead to complications such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, and even amputation. Regular doctor visits can help control and even prevent Diabetes.” Kersh WAS the CHIN presenter on Diabetes at the Lunch & Learn event at 12 noon on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at NorthPark Church, 7770 Highway 39 North, Meridian, MS 39305. Enjoy this video of her presentation. Many health conditions can be managed if caught early. Follow CHIN to stay informed and learn about upcoming events that educate and empower our community.

Did you know that poor oral health can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections? Keeping your mouth healthy is more than just a bright smile—it's crucial for your overall health. Our CHIN expert, Dr. Debra Munsell shares critical information on developing and maintaining good oral health habits. Tip: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent cavities.

On September 30, at NorthPark Church, Dr. Lin Hogan and Mike Couch addressed the critical topic of PTSD, which can lead to suicide, and how to recognize and support those at risk. CHIN Lunch & Learns are always FREE to ensure everyone's accessibility.

Did you know that Mississippi has one of the highest diabetes rates in the United States? According to recent statistics, nearly 13% of Mississippi adults have been diagnosed with diabetes. Managing this condition is crucial to prevent severe complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Diabetes can have serious complications if not properly managed. These include nerve damage, vision problems, and even amputations. Early detection and proper management are vital to preventing these outcomes. Our CHIN Lunch & Learn expert, Dr. David Lott, shares critical information with attendees on Diabetes.

Regular physical activity strengthens your lungs and improves overall lung function. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week to keep your lungs in top shape! Our August 27, 2024 Lunch and Learn focused on Healthy Lung Awareness presented by Dr. Asad Khan at NorthPark Church. We received around 150 registrations.

The Community Health Improvement Network (CHIN) hosted a Lunch and Learn event focusing on “Knowing Your Numbers” on January 24, 2025, at noon at NorthPark Church in Meridian, Miss. Dr. Sarah Anderson, D O of Primary Specialty: Family Medicine and the CHIN presenter of this Lunch & Learn, explained, “If we know our numbers we can take action to reduce chances of developing heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses. We can control and even lower our risk of major illnesses by knowing the target numbers for cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, and body mass index.” This lunch & learn kicked off our 2025 community health education events sponsored by CHIN in partnership with Meridian area organizations, churches, and hospitals. At CHIN, we believe that learning about these four critical numbers and other ways to improve your health. Health screenings were also available at this Lunch & Learn. "These conversations between community residents and medical professionals at our Lunch & Learns inform and educate our community, which can help stop and prevent more serious illnesses,” said CHIN/TMI President Beverly Knox. "We hope you consider being a part of this movement."

In alignment with its mission to improve healthcare access and education across Lauderdale County and surrounding rural areas, the Community Health Improvement Network (CHIN) hosted a community-wide Lunch and Learn event on Prostate Cancer Awareness at noon on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at NorthPark Church in Meridian, MS. The session featureed Dr. Michael Beard of the East Central Mississippi Health Network, who provided expert insight into prostate cancer risks, early detection, and resources available for prevention and care.

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month—a time to educate, support, and inspire hope. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, but early detection and prevention can save lives. Our CHIN Lunch & Learn on this subject helped attendees stay informed about the risk factors and symptoms and encouraged them to get regular check-ups.