Cancer Free Futures
The Cancer Free Futures Community Conference on Cancer Prevention is a free community event that empowers Minnesotans, especially those impacted by cancer disparities, with the knowledge and tools to take action on cancer prevention. Attendees will explore topics such as navigating cancer misinformation, the cancer screening process, mental health resources after a cancer diagnosis, and community-driven research. Free screenings and consultations for colorectal, breast, and lung cancer will be offered on-site for eligible individuals, along with opportunities to hear from survivors, chat with health professionals, and connect with local health organizations!
This event is free and open to the public, and everyone is welcome to attend! Parking is complimentary in two of our campus lots. See details in the dropdown menu below.
While registration is not required, it is encouraged to help us plan and better meet your needs. If you require interpreter services, please indicate this in your registration. Interpreter services will be arranged upon request; however, advance notice is required to confirm availability.
Learn more about the committee members who made this event possible
No Cost Cancer Screenings Offered
Cancer screenings and shared decision-making will be available at the conference with healthcare providers. These services are open to those who are interested and meet eligibility criteria.
You do not need insurance to receive these screening services. However, if you have insurance, please bring your card.
Breast Cancer Screening
Mammograms will be available in a private mobile mammography unit on-site.
Eligibility: Women 40 years and older. Must pre-register for the conference for mammography screening.
Learn more about breast cancer by visiting our infographic.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Consultations with a doctor will be available at the conference to determine eligibility for an at-home stool-based test.
Eligibility: Individuals 45 years and older of average risk
Learn more about colorectal cancer by visiting our infographic.
Lung Cancer Screening
Consultations with healthcare providers will be available at the conference to discuss lung cancer screening. The decision to begin screening is made through a shared decision-making process between you and a healthcare provider. Providers will help you determine whether screening is appropriate based on your age, smoking history, and other risk factors.
Eligibility: Individuals 50 years and older who have a significant history of cigarette smoking, (such as having smoked a pack a day for 20 years or more), and who currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.
Learn more about lung cancer by visiting our infographic.
If you have questions about screenings, please contact Nurse Patty at 612-624-2620.
What are cancer health disparities?
Cancer affects all population groups in the United States, but due to social, environmental, and economic disadvantages, certain groups bear a disproportionate burden of cancer compared with other groups, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Cancer health disparities are the preventable differences in how often people get cancer, how well they survive, how they are treated, and other elements. You can learn more about cancer disparities at the website here.
This event’s goal is to work together, as community members, cancer researchers and health professionals, to help address cancer disparities so that we can overcome them.
Conference Agenda
View the PDF version of the agenda
10:30 AM - Registration & Light Breakfast
11:00 AM - Welcome & Opening Remarks | Rebekah Pratt, PhD and Kiara Ellis, MSW
11:15 AM - Bridging Research & Community for Cancer Free Futures | Moderated by Rebekah Pratt, PhD
- Reducing Hookah-Related Harms Through Community Education | April Wilhelm, MD and Abdillahi Kahin
- Navigating Today’s Public Information Environment | Rebekah Nagler, PhD
- Alcohol and Cancer Risk | Silvia Balbo, PhD
12:15 PM - Travel Break
12:25 PM - Breakout Sessions (Choose One to Attend)
- A Closer Look at Men’s Cancer Screenings | Kevin Gilliam, MD; moderated by Billy Brownlee
- A Closer Look at Women’s Cancer Screenings | Yang Yeng, MD; moderated by Donya Dawson
- Resilience and Recovery: Navigating Mental Health After a Cancer Diagnosis | Matthew Gentle, MA, Brianna Leitzelar, PhD, Vanessa Berrueta Zambrano, Kevin Jansen; moderated by Chantal Muse, PhD
1:25 PM - Wellness Break: Visit Exhibitors, Get Screened & Connect with Others
1:50 PM - Lunch Begins
2:00 PM Keynote Address | Adair Mosley, MSc; moderated by Kiara Ellis, MSW
2:45 PM - Break
2:55 PM - The Role of Trusted Community Messengers in Cancer Prevention | Foua-Choua Khang, Kelly Robinson, RN, Wyatt Pickner, MPH; moderated by GayLynn Richards, DNP, RN, MPH
3:55 PM - Closing Remarks | Amna Hussein, MBS
4:00 PM - Visit Exhibitors, Get Screened & Connect with Others
4:30 PM - Adjourn
What's included in attending?
Attendees will receive access to all sessions on the agenda, a light breakfast and boxed lunch, as well as access to health screening opportunities, resources, connecting with experts, and more!
Location & Free Parking
Location: Cancer and Cardiovascular Research Building (CCRB), 2231 6th St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455
Parking: Parking is free. Vouchers for complimentary parking will be provided to guests who utilize the Victory lot (2302 6th St SE) or Maroon lot (2010 6th St SE) for parking. A light rail stop is also nearby. You may access this stop via the Green line.
Where can I get more information on cancer prevention?
We recommend exploring our Resource Library here. You can also reach out to our Access Nurseline at [email protected] or 612-624-2620.
Contact:
Contact Elsie Aldrich with questions or comments at [email protected] or 612-626-2805.