Implementation of a Community Prevention Program to Reduce Cardiovascular Risks

Cardiovascular disease is a serious health condition that affects the blood flow to and from the heart. It is currently one of the leading causes of death globally as it accounts for approximately 32% of deaths each year (WHO, 2021). In Palm Beach County, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death accounting for 23.7% of overall deaths (Palm Beach County, 2022). The risk for developing this disease increases when other comorbidities exist such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or an elevated Body Mass Index (BMI). With proper knowledge and lifestyle modifications, risks from complications are lowered. It is for this reason that a QI project was implemented, to see if a community prevention program (CPP) could help improve knowledge and behavior changes within a population. Overall, six participants completed the program, three males, and three females. Results showed that 83% of participants lowered their HgA1c while there was a 100% increase in blood pressure. Results also showed a decrease in BMI for 33% of participants, and an increase in BMI for 17% of participants. Overall cholesterol decreased by 66%. Based on the self-efficacy survey that participants took, it appeared that they were more confident and likely to identify healthy food choices and increase their aerobic exercise and activities. Although initial goals were not fully met, the implications of this project showed that a CPP can improve certain biomarkers that could help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. A longer period of time and larger sample size might yield much different results. It would also be beneficial to trend certain biomarkers such as BMI and blood pressure multiple times throughout the duration of the program to determine if a change occurs over a longer period.