CDPH Weekly Media Brief, 03/12/2026

Jump Ahead

• Dr. Ige Featured on Atlantic Panel
• Healing Arts Weekly Schedule
• National Nutrition Month
• Colorectal Cancer Awareness

Who Will Lead American Science?

The Atlantic and University of Michigan hosted a discussion entitled Who Will Lead American Science? on Thursday, March 5 with medical and education professionals, public health officials, and media experts around the future of science in America. CDPH's Dr. Olusimbo Ige joined a panel to talk about combatting misinformation, storytelling and personal connection, and focusing on possibility over pitfalls. The full two-panel conversation can be viewed on YouTube.

Healing Arts Weekly Schedule

The Healing Arts Chicago program continues to offer free, arts-based workshops that support mental health and wellness at CDPH mental health centers. The current session runs through April 3 and includes classes like "Tune In: Reclaiming Inner Balance Through Sound" at Greater Lawn West 55th Street Health Hub, "Community Connections: DIY Jewelry" at North River-North Pulaski Health Clinic, and "Writing Towards Relief" at Lawndale South Western Avenue Health Clinic. Chicago residents can register for free classes and learn more about Healing Arts Chicago on the City of Chicago website.

National Nutrition Awareness Month

March is National Nutrition Month, and CDPH is proud to support families through our WIC clinics. Through these clinics, the department provides nutrition assessments, individualized counseling, and monthly food benefits that help families purchase healthy foods.

CDPH Public Health Nutritionists work directly with pregnant people, new moms, caregivers, infants, and young children to support healthy pregnancies, infant feeding, breastfeeding, and early childhood nutrition. Additional services include breastfeeding education and one-on-one lactation support, which is critical in the early weeks after birth. Families receive growth monitoring for children under five, guidance on introducing solid foods, and support for managing nutrition-related health concerns, such as anemia or healthy weight gain during pregnancy.

For more information about WIC clinic locations or how to apply, visit chicago.gov/WIC.

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a reminder to understand your risk factors, prioritize prevention, and stay up to date on screening. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among men and women in the U.S., and when it is found early through screening, it is often easier to treat.

Screening is recommended starting at age 45, but health experts are also monitoring rising rates among younger adults, highlighting the importance of awareness and prevention at every age. More than half of colorectal cancer cases are linked to lifestyle factors, so healthy habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and avoiding smoking can help reduce risk.

This month, CDPH Response Corps Community Health Workers are engaging residents across Chicago communities to share information, provide health education, and connect people to screening and services. Early detection saves lives, and getting screened is one of the most effective steps you can take to protect your health. Learn more from the American Cancer Society.

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