Students in the evening Medical Assistant program at Ross Medical Education Center in Johnson City, Tennessee recently attended a community education forum. The forum was offered by one of their local health systems and was called: “Nutrition for Cancer Prevention, Treatment and Beyond.” Morgan Anderson, RD, LDN, Oncology Dietitian, MSHA, and Crystal Woods, RDN, LDN, shared with students about the importance of a healthy eating plan for the prevention and treatment of cancer. Of course, tools to help prevent and treat cancer are very important both personally and professionally to students, faculty, and staff of Ross alike. During the presentation, some pros and cons of the traditional multicolored plate idea were discussed and compared to the MyPlate.gov standard.
Students participated in a round-table discussion learning about the many diet myths related to certain foods and cancer. One of the big points was the fact that sugar feeds all cells, not just cancer cells. Handouts were presented for additional information and future reference. Students then practiced using a Fat Calculation device and Body Mass Index chart to find out where they were on the BMI scale. Blood Pressure checks were demonstrated by the center’s Registered Nurses. To wrap up the discussion, samples of red raspberry infused water and avocado chocolate mousse were offered as an example of a healthy snack option along with take-home recipes for both.
The center was also sponsoring a special event for breast cancer awareness called “Let’s Nail Out Breast Cancer.” Local nail technicians volunteered their time and talents to provide manicures for all visitors. Several students participated to show their support for this worthy cause. After the events, an invitation was given to the Ross students to return at any time to sit in on the classes offered to the community and special consideration was offered for times that will accommodate the evening class hours.