Dissemination trial for Health for Hearts United: Model development, preliminary outcomes and lessons learned.

Background: Cardiovascular disease CVD), the leading cause of death in the U.S., is a particular problem for African Americans (AAs).

Utilizing health ambassadors to improve type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease outcomes in Gadsden County, Florida.

Minority racial and ethnic groups are at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes. These groups also experience more severe complications from diabetes and have higher mortality rates as a result of the disease, such as cardiovascular disease, amputation and kidney failure. Underserved rural ethnically disparate populations benefit from health education outreach efforts that are conveyed and translated by specially-trained community health ambassadors.

Reducing cardiovascular disease risk in mid-life and older African Americans: a church-based longitudinal intervention project at baseline.

Introduction: African Americans (AAs) experience higher age-adjusted morbidity and mortality than Whites for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Church-based health programs can reduce risk factors for CVD, including elevated blood pressure [BP], excess body weight, sedentary lifestyle and diet. Yet few studies have incorporated older adults and longitudinal designs.

Community perceptions of black infant mortality: a qualitative inquiry.

Infant mortality is a key public health concern in the United States. Although infant mortality rates (IMRs) have declined, the rates among blacks are more than twice those of other racial/ethnic groups. Some Florida counties have black IMR more than four times the white IMR.