January 14, 2025
Community Health Corner
The National Extension Framework for Health Equity and Well-being recommends using community development strategies and health literacy programs to ensure that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to be as healthy as possible. The following resources help us improve well-being for all, and achieve Healthy Kansas 2030 and Healthy People 2030 objectives.
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month: According to America’s Health Rankings, 57.6% of Kansas women are screened for cervical cancer which is higher than the nation’s average of 51.6%. The Kansas Cancer Partnership reports that 79% of Kansas women aged 21-65 years had a pap test within the past three years in Kansas. Having a pap test within the past three years is significantly lower among uninsured versus insured women. Regular screenings are essential and completing the HPV vaccination series is important. HPV vaccination information and resources are available from the Immunize Kansas Coalition (IKC) here. Share the MyHealthfinder tools to encourage people in your community to prioritize cervical cancer screenings. Information about other cancers and the state’s cancer prevention plan is available here.
Locate Your County-Level Kindergarten Immunization One-Pagers: KDHE’s Kindergarten Data Dashboard is now available through county one-pagers. One-pagers are easily accessible and highlight the vaccines required for school entry, dosage, and percentage of children up-to-date by academic year. The reports also compare the county and statewide total vaccine exemption rates by school year.Find your county on KDHE's County Level Kindergarten Surveys resource page.
Winter Safety Tips: Winter hazards can include sudden snowstorms and power outages, preparing can help ensure that you stay warm, safe during the season. Know Your Winter Risks. Cold weather can increase the risk of hypothermia, frostbite, home fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Sixty-three percent of temperature-related deaths are due to cold exposure, and winter is the peak season for home fires. Ready.gov/winter-ready has guidance, tools, and winter weather resources. Simple tips, media posts and preparation videos are available. Winter awareness includes helping neighbors, friends, and family members:
- Older Adults and Vulnerable Neighbors: Check on those with limited mobility. Keep outside steps, walkways, and entrances well-lit, ice-free, and accessible.
- Outdoor Workers and Sports Enthusiasts: Dress in layers, protect exposed skin, and limit time outdoors in extreme cold. Always let someone know your route and carry a fully charged cellphone.
For more information, contact Elaine Johannes, ejohanne@ksu.edu; and Stephanie Gutierrez, smgutier@k-state.edu