City partners with National Minority Health Forum on early-detection cancer study

Mayor Sheldon A. Neely introduced a cancer early-detection initiative in partnership with the National Minority Health Forum and local health leaders, saying the project seeks to improve outcomes for populations who are often diagnosed late. The mayor credited Arthur Woodson and the forum for helping bring the study to the city.

Dr. Gary Puckering of the National Minority Health Forum described the technology and pilot numbers: "So with 1 blood draw, We can screen for 52 different cancers," he said, and reported that the first phase enrolled about 200 people and the study will enroll another 200, bringing the total to 400 participants. Local health leader Sheba Bernard described the challenge of late-stage diagnosis and emphasized treatment navigation and wraparound services. The city provided a contact number for residents interested in participating: (810) 410-2020.