Center for Community Health & Prevention, URMC

01/05/2026

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Are you due for a screening and don't have health insurance? Contact the Cancer Services Program of the Finger Lakes Region at (585) 224-3070 to learn more.

01/02/2026

Join us in 2026 for Commit to Quit!

Any reduction in smoking or va**ng is beneficial to your health and can be an important step in the quit journey. Are you ready to take the next step?

The first Commit to Quit! group program of the new year, offered virtually through the UR Medicine To***co Treatment Program, kicks off at 4 p.m. Monday, January 19.

Learn more about the free, six-session series and register today: https://committoquit.urmc.edu/

12/31/2025

What are you looking forward to, or hoping for, in 2026?

We asked Edith Williams, PhD, director of our Center and professor in the Department of Public Health Sciences, to share her outlook for the Center in the new year. ✨

12/24/2025

Rochester students share how the Teen Health & Success Partnership (THSP) program has equipped them with the resources and experience to build successful career journeys - an inspiring reminder of growth, gratitude, and community during the holiday season.

The THSP matches City of Rochester high school students with employment opportunities across the University of Rochester while providing comprehensive support for long-term career success.

Watch the full video to learn more about the program and hear students' perspectives: https://youtu.be/hETFyX6z5m0

12/23/2025

The holiday season can be a challenging time for those trying to stay smoke/vape free. Our team of to***co treatment specialists are here for you! Ramón Cruz, a treatment specialist and lifestyle counselor at our Center, shares some helpful strategies and a reminder that you're not alone.

Learn more about the variety of services offered by the UR Medicine To***co Treatment Program, a collaboration between our Center and Wilmot Cancer Institute > https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/conditions-and-treatments/to***co-treatment-program

12/19/2025

Center staff gathered last night for our annual holiday party, featuring the first CCHP Talent Show! Staff shared talents ranging from singing and dancing to PowerPoint design and gingerbread house decorating.

It was a great evening! ✨

12/18/2025

Black women in the U.S. face a much higher risk of dying from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Collaboration is key to ending the maternal health crisis by addressing these disparities. Our recent Dr. Bernard Guyer Lecture Series focused on improving health outcomes and ways advocates are coming together to make a difference.

Learn more about the event at guyerlecture.urmc.edu.

Thank you to our local experts from HealthConnect One, UR Medicine, Common Ground Health and Finger Lakes Performing Provider System - FLPPS for bringing attention to the maternal health crisis and working to ensure that every mother and family has the opportunity to thrive. Special thanks to keynote speaker Leseliey Welch, MPH, MBA, a co-founder and Board President of Birth Detroit and Birth Center Equity for joining the discussion and sharing "Beloved Birth 50 by 50 – An Invitation to Courageous Collective Action."

12/18/2025

During the holidays, many people are traveling far and wide to be with loved ones. Whether you're flying or driving, there can be limited healthy options and not as many opportunities to eat, but a little planning can go a long way. 🚘✈🚌

Registered Dietitian Bethany Moran shares some simple tips and tricks to keep you feeling energized, nourished, and prepared while traveling.

12/16/2025

The holidays can often feel overwhelming, for both adults and kids. Pediatric psychiatrist Dr. Laura Cardella, MD, of Golisano Children's Hospital shares tips to help families manage holiday stress together.

Busy schedules, family dynamics, and unrealistic expectations can leave kids and parents feeling stressed during the holidays. Reduce holiday stress for yourself and your children with these expert tips.

12/16/2025

Congratulations to Sue Gasparino, MD, MPH, DABOM, medical director of our clinical and community-based programs and pediatrician at Golisano Children's Hospital, who recently passed her obesity medicine boards! Dr. Gasparino is officially a Diplomate of American Board of Obesity Medicine (DABOM).

This certification signifies her specialized knowledge in the practice of obesity medicine and her competency in obesity care.

Congratulations, Dr. Gasparino! We're so lucky to have you on our team!

12/13/2025

Good news: Monroe County is seeing its first significant decline in overdose deaths in years!

This is a hopeful sign that prevention, early intervention, and harm reduction efforts are making a real impact. Our experts credit expanded naloxone access, stronger community partnerships, data-driven action, and improved pathways to treatment as key drivers of this progress.

There’s still much work ahead, but this shift shows that evidence-based approaches can save lives!

12/12/2025

Slow cooker meals are perfect for the winter season. Registered Dietitian April Ho shares a recipe for a family favorite – slow cooker shredded beef – and how she pairs it with fiber-rich sides for a balanced heart-healthy meal everyone can enjoy. ❄️

Find the step-by-step recipe from The Kitchn > https://www.thekitchn.com/slow-cooker-shredded-beef-267146