Norfolk, VA – Sentara Health has initiated a groundbreaking partnership with 10 Black churches in Hampton Roads to address the pervasive issue of high blood pressure within the African American community. One prominent participant is Second Calvary Baptist Church in Norfolk.

Addressing a Critical Health Concern

Pastor Reverend Dr. Geoffrey Guns of Second Calvary Baptist Church recently highlighted the prevalence of hypertension among his congregation. He emphasized the urgent need for intervention, stating, Nearly 50% of my congregation has hypertension. This mirrors the broader trend in Norfolk, where high blood pressure rates are alarmingly high among African Americans compared to other demographics.

Sentara’s Initiative and Community Collaboration

Sentara Healthcare’s $3.4 million grant-funded initiative aims to tackle these disparities head-on. Iris Lundy, Vice President of Health Equity at Sentara, underscores the initiative’s importance, noting that hypertension often leads to severe health outcomes within urban Black populations. The study includes providing participants with at-home blood pressure monitors, health journals, and personalized support from healthcare professionals.

Innovative Approaches and Community Involvement

Central to Sentara’s strategy is the integration of community health workers who understand the cultural nuances of the participants. This approach ensures that the interventions are not only effective but also culturally sensitive.

The Role of the Church in Health Promotion

Dr. Guns emphasizes the pivotal role of the church in promoting health awareness and facilitating community engagement. He asserts, There’s no more trusted institution in the African-American community than the church. This partnership builds on previous collaborations during the pandemic, where these churches served as vaccination hubs.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Sentara Health and local Black churches exemplifies a proactive approach to improving health outcomes in underserved communities. By leveraging trusted community institutions like churches, this initiative aims to create a blueprint for sustainable health interventions that save lives.

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