Local Orgs. Partner to Provide Blood Pressure Monitors in Kent, Sussex Co. Housing Communities

Image Courtesy of Delaware State Housing Authority

KENT & SUSSEX COUNTIES, Del. – The Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) and the Delaware chapter of the American Heart Association (AHA) are teaming up to help Sussex and Kent County residents by providing tools and educational resources to self-measure and self-monitor blood pressure.

Through the collaborative agreement, AHA provides blood pressure devices, cuffs, and logs to record results and educational materials to DSHA’s public housing communities. DSHA has set up blood pressure stations in those community centers so residents can easily access the devices. Educational materials provided by AHA explain how to interpret results, when to seek the care of a medical professional, and ways to prevent and treat high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.

Stroke, along with cancer and heart disease, are leading causes of death in Delaware, according to the Center for Disease Control. Further, DHSA says the Dover Census Tract, where two of the seven public housing communities are located, has a poor overall rating in cardiovascular health among its citizens. Because of these factors, the collaboration between DSHA and AHA is intended to spread key messages about cardiovascular health and warning signs.

“DSHA’s collaboration with the American Heart Association aligns well with our mission to provide financial, reading and health literacy services to our residents in Kent and Sussex counties,” said DSHA Director Matthew Heckles. “We are excited to offer important health screening and educational resources where our residents live, making it convenient and free of charge to them.”

DSHA staff on site will have a list of healthcare professionals in their respective geographic areas to share with residents upon request whose blood pressure results indicate a need for medical attention.

To read more about the new partnership, click here.