This year’s Mini Medical School at Des Moines University (DMU) will give you an overview of the top five causes of death in the United States. Beginning February 9, the five classes will be held each Tuesday evening, 7-8:30 p.m., in the DMU Student Education Center, 3300 Grand Avenue.
The goal of this year’s course theme – The Big Bad 5 – is to take some mystery out of the top five causes of death in the United States. The Big Bad 5 includes heart disease, strokes, cancer, trauma and infectious disease.
Understanding each of the five will enable participants to be more proactive in maintaining healthy lifestyles.
“We wanted to offer practical information that everyone should known,” explained Craig Canby, Ph.D., anatomy professor and Mini Medical School co-organizer. “Understanding major health concerns can help a person live a more healthful, aware life.”
This is the seventh year Des Moines University has offered Mini Medical School. The course is appropriate for middle-school students through senior citizens. Mini Medical School was launched as a community initiative so the general public could learn about medical and health issues. The curriculum is based on attendee feedback and topics that are timely. Attendance has increased each year and DMU officials expect more than 300 attendees.

Flu shots will not be available at Saturday’s Des Moines University Senior Health Fair as previously expected. The fair will go on as planned. Due to the Polk County Health Department’s vaccine shortage, they had to cancel all upcoming flu shot clinics until their supply is refreshed.
Des Moines University is excited to bring Art 4 Health (A4H) to Iowa. A4H is a traveling art exhibit launched by the World Health Organization in Geneva, Switzerland to increase awareness of global women’s health issues and promote the message that underprivileged women everywhere can work to overcome their circumstances.