Community Programs
St. Luke's MSTI

St. Luke’s Mountain States Tumor Institute (MSTI) is dedicated to educating the public about cancer prevention and detection. Studies show that personal behaviors such as diet, physical activity, sun exposure, and tobacco use contribute to 60-80 percent of known causes of cancer.

The FUN for Life program provides basic education to school-aged children in the public schools about healthy lifestyles that may translate into lower rates of cancer in future generations. Program activities are designed to be simple and fun to engage this young audience.

FUN (fitness, understanding, nutrition) for Life activities target specific age groups based on developmental understanding. Each program is demonstrated in person to students by trained St. Luke’s MSTI staff, with packets provided for teachers and students. FUN for Life is intended to be self-sustaining; following the demonstration, the classroom teacher will have the information and knowledge to provide the content to subsequent classes over the years. St. Luke’s MSTI provides program materials on a yearly basis.

Key topics of FUN for Life:

• Diet and Exercise
• Sun Protection
• Tobacco Use

FUN for Life follows a sequence over the course of several years. The first section focuses on diet and exercise and is designed for grades 1-3 and 4-5, with varied activities for the separate age groups. In many cases, there will not be an association made between cancer prevention and the healthy lifestyle highlighted, as there are multiple health benefits such as lowering the risk for heart disease and diabetes. Our approach uses a holistic view.

FUN for Life is provided free of charge by St. Luke’s MSTI. All program materials are provided at the time of the initial presentation, with ongoing support and materials also available. To learn more about this program, or to schedule a presentation, please call St. Luke’s MSTI at 381-2711.

A tobacco-free education program for kids
From the American Academy of Family Physicians

St. Luke's MSTI is committed to educating the community on the effects of tobacco use. Our staff members are volunteers and presenters for the nationally recognized organization, Tar Wars. If you would like to learn more about Tar Wars, or would like to schedule a presentation at your school or organization, please contact St. Luke's MSTI at 381-2711. You can also visit the official Tar Wars website at tarwars.org.