Reducing Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Mid-life & Older African Americans

Overview

The specific purpose of the Reducing CVD Risk Project was to determine the effectiveness of a church-based intervention program that aimed to reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors in mid-life and older African Americans through:

  • Increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, and calcium rich foods
  • Increased habitual physical activity
  • Decreased consumption of fat, sugar, and sodium
  • Improved blood pressure, body weight, blood sugars and other clinical indicators

Approach

In particular, the intervention focused on a community-based participatory research process which grew out of existing volunteer efforts (i.e., Day of Dialogue on Minority Health).

Methods
  • 6 churches (three treatment, three comparison) in Gadsden & Leon Counties
  • African American adult participants > 45, n=300, n=100 clinical subsample
  • Data collected through surveys, clinical measures & biomarkers at baseline, 6, 18 & 24 months
Theoretical Models
  • Trans-theoretical model of change (stage of change)
  • Socio-ecological framework

For more information about the project, please contact:

Penny A. Ralston, Ph.D., pralston@fsu.edu, (850) 645-8110

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