The disease that plaque the United States have risen, and has contributed that the nation lagging behind most industrialized nations of the world in health. While the United States spends the most per capita of any industrialized nation, it ranks 25th in life expectancy, a dismal condition. Mississippi leads the nation in deaths from these preventable diseases. Its rural areas, along with its inner city communities have high preponderance of underserved communities, and it is believed that these communities account for more than 60% of these deaths. Poor preventive activities in these communities have attributed to the high rate of death from diseases such as Heart Attack, Stroke, Cancer, Diabetes, and kidney diseases seen in these areas. In addition, Teen Pregnancy, and youth crime are rampant.
To help address these issues, the Community Outreach for Health Awareness, Incorporated (COHA, Inc.) was formed on December 8, 1994. Recognizing that the prevalence of these plaques is high in rural, and inner city communities, COHA determined to counter the devastating effects of poor preventive activities by beginning in these communities. COHA is a 501© (3) community based nonprofit organization. |
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Director:
Michelle Rozell, RN
(601) 376-1000
Heart disease and Stroke are among the most common causes of death in Mississippi. The preponderance of the burden rests on the underserved residents of the State... MORE |
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Director: Zina Lee, MD
(601) 914-0163
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Mississippi. Although primary prevention of cancer is scarce, early detection, to a large extent improves morbidity and ... MORE |
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Director: Sharon Brister, BSW
(601) 940-0353
Mississippi leads the nation in the rate of teen pregnancy and infant mortality. Teen pregnancy has been linked to a high rate of premature low weight babies. In addition, children of teen mothers ... MORE |
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Director: Claud McInnis
(601) 985-3036
Youth crime in Mississippi’s rural and inner city communities are high, and are most often linked to illicit use of alcohol/drugs, and gang activities. Hinds County estimates that over 70% of youth crime is ... MORE |
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Director: Bess Blackwell, RN
(601) 984-4393
The diseases that cause most deaths are known as silent killers. These include cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and cancer... MORE |
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Mississippi’s health issues need to be brought to the forefront of policy makers... MORE
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Director: Dalphiney Bell
(601) 432-6697
Youth crime remains high in Mississippi. In addition, school drop out rate remains highest in the nation. Every year, since 1999, COHA has provided teen summit ... MORE |
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Director: Kimberly Coleman
(601) 985-3044
Parent's type of involvement in the life of their children is paramount to the outcome of that child's life. Studies show ... MORE |
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Director: COHA Office
(601) 373-1492
By rewarding those that have given of themselves, in addition to their being motivated to do more, others are also motivated to emulate them... MORE |
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