An increasing number of cancer diagnoses in Williamson County has a local healthcare agency stepping up to add colon and prostate cancer screenings to its breast-cancer services.
The Williamson County and Cities Health District hosted an awareness event Friday, July 17, at the Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St.
About 20 people attended to learn more about available resources for cancer treatment.
“Screening is crucial and important,” said Tara Jempty, director of program eligibility and social services.
In November 2024, the health district hosted its initial breast cancer-screening event.
The screenings have now expanded to include colon and prostate cancer, officials said.
Friday’s session featured survivor speeches from Annette Davis and Alex Mireles; educational presentations from Kaylie Korompai and Charles Cox, who covered breast and colon cancer screening, respectively; and a question-and-answer session.
Jempty said this is the second time WCCHD has offered a program of this kind in Taylor.
“We’ve been out and about,” Jempty said. “We’ve worked with the Big Pink Bus and have had events around the county.”
Jempty said county officials met with the health district two years ago to discuss aid for those ranging from patients who could not afford healthcare to those simply looking for available screenings.
Funding originates with a variety of sources, from the federal government to the county.
“We’re trying to get the word out there on what the program offers,” Jempty said. “We go in several different places and we try to go to schools, community events, food pantries or anywhere.”
Since 1943, the health district has provided medical services to Williamson County.
The agency’s primary office is at 358 Texas Ave. in Round Rock, with satellite locations in several communities including Taylor and Cedar Park.
For more, call 512-248-3252.
