Norfolk, VA – Sentara Health has launched a groundbreaking initiative in collaboration with 10 Black churches across Hampton Roads to address the prevalent issue of high blood pressure within the African American community. One of the key partners in this endeavor is Second Calvary Baptist Church in Norfolk, where Pastor Reverend Dr. Geoffrey Guns has taken a proactive stance on hypertension awareness.
Dr. Guns highlighted the urgency of the issue during a recent sermon, where he engaged his congregation by asking how many members were affected by hypertension, prompting many to stand up. This initiative aims not only to raise awareness but also to enroll participants in a comprehensive hypertension study conducted in conjunction with Sentara Healthcare.
Understanding the Scope of the Problem
Dr. Guns emphasized the significance of their involvement, noting that nearly half of his congregation suffers from hypertension, mirroring broader statistics across Norfolk. According to health experts, hypertension disproportionately affects urban Black populations, presenting more severe cases compared to their white counterparts. Iris Lundy, Sentara’s Vice President of Health Equity, underscored the gravity of the issue, citing statistics that indicate significant disparities in blood pressure control between racial groups.
A Strategic Approach to Health Equity
Sentara Health has allocated $3.4 million from a grant to support this initiative, which includes providing participants with at-home blood pressure monitors, health journals, and regular guidance from healthcare professionals. This multifaceted approach also integrates community health workers who understand the cultural nuances and needs of the communities they serve.
Lundy emphasized the role of these community health workers in fostering trust and ensuring effective communication throughout the 18-month study period. Dr. Guns reiterated the pivotal role of the church as a trusted institution within the African American community, emphasizing its effectiveness in health outreach efforts.
Building Trust and Saving Lives
The collaboration between Sentara Health and local Black churches extends beyond this initiative, having previously partnered on COVID-19 vaccination drives. Dr. Guns highlighted the success of these efforts, underlining the essential role of the church in reaching and engaging with the community effectively.
This partnership not only aims to tackle immediate health concerns but also sets a precedent for future collaborations aimed at improving health outcomes in marginalized communities. For more information on this initiative and a list of participating churches, visit Sentara Health’s dedicated page.
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Norfolk, VA – Sentara Health has launched a groundbreaking initiative in collaboration with 10 Black churches across Hampton Roads to address the prevalent issue of high blood pressure within the African American community. One of the key partners in this endeavor is Second Calvary Baptist Church in Norfolk, where Pastor Reverend Dr. Geoffrey Guns has taken a proactive stance on hypertension awareness.
Dr. Guns highlighted the urgency of the issue during a recent sermon, where he engaged his congregation by asking how many members were affected by hypertension, prompting many to stand up. This initiative aims not only to raise awareness but also to enroll participants in a comprehensive hypertension study conducted in conjunction with Sentara Healthcare.
Understanding the Scope of the Problem
Dr. Guns emphasized the significance of their involvement, noting that nearly half of his congregation suffers from hypertension, mirroring broader statistics across Norfolk. According to health experts, hypertension disproportionately affects urban Black populations, presenting more severe cases compared to their white counterparts. Iris Lundy, Sentara’s Vice President of Health Equity, underscored the gravity of the issue, citing statistics that indicate significant disparities in blood pressure control between racial groups.
A Strategic Approach to Health Equity
Sentara Health has allocated $3.4 million from a grant to support this initiative, which includes providing participants with at-home blood pressure monitors, health journals, and regular guidance from healthcare professionals. This multifaceted approach also integrates community health workers who understand the cultural nuances and needs of the communities they serve.
Lundy emphasized the role of these community health workers in fostering trust and ensuring effective communication throughout the 18-month study period. Dr. Guns reiterated the pivotal role of the church as a trusted institution within the African American community, emphasizing its effectiveness in health outreach efforts.
Building Trust and Saving Lives
The collaboration between Sentara Health and local Black churches extends beyond this initiative, having previously partnered on COVID-19 vaccination drives. Dr. Guns highlighted the success of these efforts, underlining the essential role of the church in reaching and engaging with the community effectively.
This partnership not only aims to tackle immediate health concerns but also sets a precedent for future collaborations aimed at improving health outcomes in marginalized communities. For more information on this initiative and a list of participating churches, visit Sentara Health’s dedicated page.
Download The Local News App
Stay informed about local health initiatives and community partnerships by downloading The Local News App on your mobile device. Click download below to access the latest news and updates directly.
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