Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are increasingly impacting Iowans. Preliminary data from the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) for 2021 show significant increases in some STDs. 

The Iowa Departments of Public Health (IDPH) and Human Services (DHS) are one step closer to becoming a single agency. Today the Departments released the final change package and functional organizational chart. This serves as the roadmap to bring together both agencies under a single leadership structure. The goal of this work is to strengthen coordination amongst existing services and provide more comprehensive services to all Iowans. This will also allow us to gain efficiencies and better leverage resources to reinvest in our system. There are no plans for layoffs or to discontinue existing programs or services.

The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) is recognizing International Adolescent Health Week March 20-26, 2022, and encourages all Iowans to put the health, safety, and well-being of children first every day, but especially during this week.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Iowa. As part of this annual health observance, the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) is encouraging Iowans starting at the age of 45 to get screened for colorectal cancer (CRC).

The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), in collaboration with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), recognizes March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM).