Intergenerational Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Chronic Cardiovascular Care Intervention

The Ruth Lee Miller Heart Health Foundation proposes a community-based intergenerational intervention aimed at addressing the top three modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease: elevated LDL cholesterol, high blood pressure, and smoking. This comprehensive program targets children aged 12-18 years who have genetically related adult relatives diagnosed with cardiovascular disease. By combining primary prevention strategies for the youth and secondary prevention strategies for the adults, we aim to create a supportive and health-conscious environment within families.

Primary Prevention Strategies for Youth: For children aged 12-18, our intervention focuses on instilling healthy habits early in life to prevent the onset of cardiovascular disease. The program includes educational workshops on nutrition, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol. Physical activity sessions encourage regular exercise to maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Smoking prevention workshops educate youth on the dangers of tobacco use, equipping them with the skills to resist peer pressure and make informed decisions. By engaging youth in these activities, we aim to reduce their risk factors and promote long-term cardiovascular health.

Secondary Prevention Strategies for Adults: For adults with a diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, our intervention employs secondary prevention strategies to manage and mitigate existing conditions. Utilizing the latest remote medical technologies, we provide participants with remote blood pressure monitors, personal EKG devices, point-of-care meters to test for blood abnormalities (lipid profile, glucose, HbA1c), smart stethoscopes for remote doctor's visits, personal resting metabolic rate meters, Wi-Fi scales, and devices for monitoring food intake. These tools enable continuous monitoring and timely intervention, reducing the need for frequent clinic visits and hospitalizations.

Educational Curriculum and Implementation: Our educational curriculum, developed in collaboration with board members and partners, encompasses a holistic approach to cardiovascular health. The curriculum covers key lifestyle aspects, including nutrition, physical activity, and smoking cessation. Educational materials are designed to be culturally relevant and accessible, ensuring that participants can easily incorporate healthy practices into their daily lives. The curriculum is delivered through interactive workshops, home visits, and digital platforms to maximize reach and engagement.

Implementation in Remote Settings: The intervention is designed to be implemented in participants' homes or other remote locations, reducing the barriers to accessing healthcare. By bringing healthcare services directly to the community, we facilitate more frequent care and minimize the need for clinic and hospital visits. This approach not only enhances accessibility but also fosters a sense of comfort and trust among participants, encouraging them to actively engage in their health management.

Inspiring Youth and Leveraging Family Health: One of the key goals of this intervention is to inspire children to develop healthy heart habits by using their family's health as a motivating factor. By witnessing the impact of cardiovascular disease on their relatives, youth participants gain a heightened awareness of their own risk factors and the importance of preventive measures. This intergenerational approach leverages the family unit as a support system, fostering a culture of health and well-being that extends beyond the duration of the program.

In summary, our community-based intergenerational intervention aims to address the modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease through a comprehensive and supportive approach. By combining primary and secondary prevention strategies, utilizing advanced remote medical technologies, and delivering an inclusive educational curriculum, we strive to make a lasting impact on the cardiovascular health of underserved African American families in St. Louis.