17 March, 2026
community-health-initiative-hosts-heart-awareness-event-on-feb-11

Residents of Meridian, Mississippi, are invited to participate in a vital educational opportunity focused on heart health. The Community Health Improvement Network (CHIN) will host a Healthy Heart Awareness Lunch & Learn on February 11, 2026, at noon. This free event will take place at NorthPark Church, located at 7770 Highway 39 North. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP by February 9 to secure their spot.

The session will feature Dr. Eesha Khan, a cardiologist who will provide insights into cardiovascular diseases, including heart disease and stroke, which are leading causes of death in Mississippi. Dr. Khan will explain the impact of coronary artery disease on the major blood vessels that supply the heart and emphasize the importance of recognizing symptoms early to save lives.

Understanding the differences in symptoms between genders will also be a key focus. While men often experience noticeable chest pain, women may exhibit subtler signs, such as shortness of breath, nausea, or extreme fatigue—indicators that are frequently overlooked or misunderstood.

Beverly Knox, president of CHIN, highlighted the significance of this educational effort. “Heart disease impacts families across our region, and too often the warning signs go unrecognized,” she stated. “This Lunch & Learn gives our community the opportunity to better understand heart health, recognize symptoms, and take proactive steps toward prevention.”

This Healthy Heart Awareness Lunch & Learn is part of CHIN’s commitment to enhance access to reliable health information and preventative care, especially for underserved and at-risk populations. Since its establishment in 2016, CHIN has collaborated with healthcare providers, community organizations, and faith-based partners to address critical health needs identified through local assessments.

The event represents an important step toward fostering a healthier community by equipping residents with the knowledge needed to combat heart disease effectively. Participants will leave better informed about cardiovascular health, making it possible to take proactive measures toward their well-being.