Hundreds attend Healthy MS Conference

JANS – The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), in collaboration with the Mississippi Health Disparities Planning Committee, hosted the Healthy MS Conference June 4 – 6, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel in Flowood. 

Dr. Dan Edney, State Health Officer and MSDH Executive Director, delivered the keynote on June 5, titled, “The State of Mississippi: A Report on the Health & Well-Being of Mississippi,” in which he highlighted progress, solutions, and opportunities in addressing the state’s top and emerging public health issues. 

The annual event is the largest gathering of public health professionals in the state. Healthy MS addresses current and emerging issues in health science, policy, and practice related to disease prevention and health promotion. The conference brings together a diverse group of influential public health leaders, healthcare professionals, and community health advocates across Mississippi.

In conjunction with the Healthy MS, the Community Health Advisor Network (CHAN) held its 5th Annual Retreat on June 4. 

CHAN chapters throughout the state have been successful in improving individual, family, and community health by focusing on increasing physical activity, better nutrition, smoking cessation and blood pressure control. The CHAN Retreat provided opportunities for networking, engagement, and training to enhance community activities. 

Sessions included presentations on the state of the Jackson Heart Study, team building, and healthy living. Dr. Edney also addressed CHAN participants. “It’s really important that you have a primary healthcare provider,” he stressed.

(Advocate photos)