Health Promotion & Education
Madison County Partnership for Community Health
The Madison County Partnership for Community Health (MCPCH) is the voice of community health for Madison County residents. Any community member or agency can join MCPCH to assist with identifying health concerns and working on solutions to address them. MCPCH works to accomplish the health priorities that are identified and established every five years in the Madison County Community Health Plan. Priorities are determined following an extensive community needs assessment. The health priorities for 2001-2006 are respiratory disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and unintentional injuries. MCPCH forms action committees based on the priority areas. These committees meet monthly to work on their plan. Come help make a healthy difference for yourself, your family, your neighbors and all of Madison County. Call today to find out more, and we’ll see you at the next meeting!
If improving the health of Madison County citizens is important to you, consider joining the citizens, health professionals and agencies who work together as the Madison County Partnership for Community Health. To join a committee or for more information about MCPCH, call (618) 692-7040 ext. 6068.
Respiratory
Prevent diseases of the lung
Most people are born with healthy lungs. Lungs that, when taken care of, are designed to last a lifetime. Unfortunately, many factors can and do turn healthy lungs into unhealthy lungs. Poor respiratory health is a serious problem in Madison County. The Respiratory Committee works to improve the lung health of citizens by keeping our youth from ever starting to smoke, supporting efforts to reduce air pollution, increasing asthma education and reducing the rate of influenza and pneumonia.
Cardiovascular
Prevent diseases of the heart
The Cardiovascular Disease Committee (CVD) consists of concerned citizens and professionals who are dedicated to improving the heart health of Madison County residents. Through fun and educational activities such as the “Madison County Walk Day,” “Beat the Odds” holiday weight maintenance program and the development of a K-12 “Heart Healthy” curriculum, the CVD Committee strives to help all Madison County residents put into action positive health practices that promote heart health.
Motor Vehicle
Reduce vehicular crashes
The Motor Vehicle Committee's focus is to decrease the number of deaths and injuries resulting from motor vehicle crashes. One way the group hopes to accomplish this is by educating the community on the importance of proper use of the occupant protection systems, such as seat belts, air bags and car seats, in their vehicles. Another area that the group addresses is driving under the influence of alcohol and other drugs. These traffic safety issues are addressed through educational programming in the schools, the community and media outlets.
Cancer
Prevent and detect cancer
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. The Cancer Committee's goal is to combat cancer through a coordinated, countywide effort. The committee's long-term goals are preventing cancer, early detection of cancer through education and the promotion of lifestyle changes. The committee focuses on carcinogens such as tobacco, as well as screening to detect breast, cervical and prostate cancers.