Risk‑adapted prostate screening |
In predominantly Black neighborhoods, prostate cancer death rates are two to three times the national average, and Black men are more likely to develop aggressive disease at younger ages. Yet primary care providers lack clear screening guidelines for high‑risk men, creating uncertainty around early detection. UI Health researchers from the University of Illinois Cancer Center and Mile Square Health Center recently published the Smart PSA study, which adapts prostate-specific antigen screening guidelines for high-risk, majority-Black communities. The study’s lead investigator, Dr. Peter Gann, professor of pathology in the College of Medicine at UIC, is available to discuss how primary care providers can adopt and sustain risk‑adapted screening using PSA levels informed by age, race, family history, and prior PSA results.
Contact: Francesca Sacco | 412-952-6806
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April is Autism Awareness Month |
Autism is a neurodevelopmental diagnosis that impacts communication, behavior and how individuals experience the world. Early intervention and diagnosis are critical for the best outcomes, including acceptance and empowerment. However, many families lack access to these resources in neurodiversity-affirming ways. Using a strengths-based approach, Dr. Alexandra Bernard, a licensed clinical psychologist at UI Health, can discuss the importance of educating underserved families to better understand their child’s diagnosis and feel more confident in advocating for their child’s needs.
Contact: Francesca Sacco | 412-952-6806
Joshua Krasne, assistant director of the Resource Center for Autism and Developmental Delays at UIC, can share valuable information for parents, teachers and caregivers of children with autism, including details about accessing resources in the Chicago area, special education advocacy, and practical tips and tools for families to use.
Contact: Brian Flood | 312-835-5432
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RSV, Flu and COVID concerns |
Spring might have sprung, but infectious diseases like RSV, influenza and COVID-19 are here to stay. These viruses are the main cause of severe respiratory disease during the respiratory season, which typically starts each fall and peaks during the winter months. However, health officials warn of a late-season surge driven by spring break travels. Dr. Stockton Mayer, an infectious disease specialist with UI Health, is available to discuss the importance of immunizations and the precautions people can take to protect themselves from a late-season virus.
Contact: Francesca Sacco | 412-952-6806
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Editor's note:
University of Illinois Chicago is the preferred full institutional name to use in text, and UIC for second and subsequent references. Do not use a comma or a dash. As of fall 2020, UIC no longer uses the word “at” in the name of the institution.
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Chair Chats featuring Magic Johnson |
April 10 | Public-$20; UIC community-Free | Email: chairchats@uic.edu
For the latest edition of Chair Chats, Earvin “Magic” Johnson joins UIC Chancellor Marie Lynn Miranda to discuss the influence his college journey continues to have on his success as an athlete and executive. Johnson, who is chairman and CEO of Magic Johnson Enterprises, has continued to make history as a co-owner of teams in the NFL, MLB, WNBA, Major League Soccer, the National Women’s Soccer League and eSports. His investment company focuses on fostering economic empowerment in urban communities through sports, real estate, infrastructure, financial services, and consumer brands, including SodexoMAGIC, UIC's dining and food services partner. 5 p.m. Isadore and Sadie Dorin Forum, 725 W. Roosevelt Road. The event is open to the UIC community and the broader public, but advance registration is required and closes on April 8. Johnson will not be available for interviews. Media may cover the discussion by registering in advance with Brian Flood, bflood@uic.edu.
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April 22 | $25 or Free | Email: uicurban@uic.edu
UIC's 2026 Urban Forum, titled “Public Service in a Changing America,” will feature panel discussions and speakers exploring the current state of the public sector, its nuances and an ethical vision for a thriving future in public service. Keynote speaker is Brian Whittaker, founder and executive director of Humans of Public Service. 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Student Center East, Illinois Room, 750 S. Halsted St. General public admission is $25 and includes a box lunch, beverages and snacks; free admission is available for all Chicago-area university faculty and students with a valid school ID. Advance registration is required.
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