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The Effectiveness of Comprehensive Health Education Programming to Decrease Cardiovascular Health Disparities: The Case of HeartSmarts

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  • Naa-Solo Tettey

Abstract

INTRODUCTION- Chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, affect African Americans at disproportionately higher rates due in part to low health literacy and a lack of comprehensive health education programs. PURPOSE- The purpose of this research is to demonstrate the effectiveness of HeartSmarts, a culturally tailored, comprehensive cardiovascular health education program, in improving cardiovascular health literacy. METHODS- Peer health educators were trained to deliver an extensive curriculum focused on cardiovascular disease and its risk factors. Upon completion, they delivered this curriculum in their churches and communities. Pre- and post-assessments were administered for blood pressure, weight, waist circumference, and knowledge of cardiovascular disease. RESULTS- Fourteen predominantly African American churches in New York City participated, and 199 participants completed the program. Participants experienced decreases in blood pressure and weight, improved their health-related behaviors, and significantly increased their knowledge of cardiovascular health. CONCLUSION- The HeartSmarts program demonstrates the effectiveness of using a comprehensive health education approach to help combat these issues. Programs that use strategies similar to HeartSmarts should be implemented for other health conditions to decrease health disparities.

Suggested Citation

  • Naa-Solo Tettey, 2019. "The Effectiveness of Comprehensive Health Education Programming to Decrease Cardiovascular Health Disparities: The Case of HeartSmarts," Global Journal of Health Science, Canadian Center of Science and Education, vol. 11(3), pages 1-68, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:ibn:gjhsjl:v:11:y:2019:i:3:p:68
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    JEL classification:

    • R00 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General - - - General
    • Z0 - Other Special Topics - - General

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