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Prevalence of chronic health conditions and risk factors among participants in a faith‐based health campaign
Author(s) -
HoyRosas Jamillah,
Lancaster Kristie J
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.24.1_supplement.558.9
Subject(s) - medicine , gerontology , community health , environmental health , chronic disease , obesity , physical activity , demography , health promotion , public health , family medicine , physical therapy , nursing , sociology
The Central Harlem Health Revival (CHHR) was created by community and faith‐based organizations to motivate Central Harlem (CH) residents to adopt a healthier lifestyle. 67% of CH's residents are Black, suffer from a 40% higher mortality rate, and have increased rates of many chronic diseases compared to New York City residents overall. The main event is a week‐long campaign including a 2‐mile walk through the community to a rally promoting a healthy lifestyle, weekday seminars and screenings focusing on different chronic diseases, and a health fair on the last day. Methods In 2008, surveys assessing prevalence of chronic health conditions, weight status, fruit and vegetable intake and other health indicators were completed by residents during the campaign. Measured height and weight were used to calculate BMI. Results Of the 188 who completed the survey, 94% were Black, 84% were female, 41% reported having high blood pressure, 34% high cholesterol, 20% diabetes and 42% had a BMI > 25. They reported eating 2.1 servings of fruit and 1.1 of vegetables. 64% reported that they would eat healthier and 51% would increase their physical activity as a result of participating in CHHR events. Conclusion The CHHR model can successfully reach at‐risk Black Americans and increase awareness of the need for lifestyle change in the community. This project was funded in part by the New York City Council. Grant Funding Source : Nutrition ASN