Perceived versus actual risk for hypertension and diabetes in the African American community.

Hypertension and diabetes mellitus are leading health concerns in the United States. Despite a disproportionate burden of both conditions among African Americans, it is estimated that 44% of diabetes cases and one quarter of hypertension cases within this population are undiagnosed. Lack of awareness of the risk of these conditions may hinder preventive efforts and the adoption of positive lifestyle changes.

Benefits of standardized diabetes and hypertension screening forms at community screening events.

The objectives of this project were to (a) assess hypertension and diabetes screening data collection practices and guidelines and (b) develop and test standardized screening forms for use at minority community- and faith-based screening events. Project Phase I involved resource assessment and the development of a set of screening forms and guidelines containing a core data set for both hypertension and diabetes. These were then tested during Phase II at predetermined community based screening events throughout the United States.