Healthy Heart Ambassador (HHA) Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring

Hypertension (HTN) is known as the silent killer. It affects men and women of every age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. it is estimated that 47% of U.S. adults (116 million) have a blood pressure of ≥ 130mm Hg systolic and ≥ 80mm Hg diastolic. (Stage 1 hypertension.)

Of people with HTN recommended to make a lifestyle change or take anti-hypertensives 74% (68 million) do not have their HTN under control. Uncontrolled HTN is the leading cause of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, dementia, and kidney disease. Alarmingly, the prevalence of hypertensive events in pregnancy are increasing as is the cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality rate linked to hypertension in younger populations. (35-64).

To help all Nevadans have access to information to help self-monitor their blood pressure, the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health has introduced the Heart Healthy Ambassador Blood Pressure Self Measuring Program (HHA-BPSM).

Purpose:

To support adults with hypertension lower and manage their blood pressure.
To engage participants in their own health management.
To improve health literacy.
To provide evidence-based nutrition education.

Goals:

Measure and record their blood pressure at home at least two times per month.
Learn how to properly measure their blood pressure.
Attend at least two personalized consultations per month with a trained Program Facilitator.
Attend monthly Nutrition Education Seminars

Program Overview:

The HHA-BPSM program is a 4-month program that includes 10-minute check-ins with program facilitators in person, on the phone, by email, or over text messaging, and monthly nutrition seminars.
Participants are asked to make two check-ins per month and attend a monthly nutrition education session.

Value and Benefits:

The power of the program is in participants finding their own paths to better blood pressure management supported by heart healthy ambassadors' guidance and encouragement.
Participants are making an investment in their health with a commitment to risk reduction.
Participants get support to develop the habit of self-monitoring.

Inclusion Criteria:

Participation in HHA-BPSM is limited:

Must be 18 years or older.
HTN diagnosed by a provider or taking an antihypertensive medication.
No cardiac events with 12 months.
Not have atrial fibrillation/flutter.
Not have or be at risk for lymphedema.

For more information, please download the information pages in the appropriate section below.

HHA Toolkit for Clinicians and Community Based Organizations (program facilitators)

HHA Toolkit for All Nevadans or General Public (program attendees)