"A blood pressure exam wasn't exactly on my shopping list that day, but when I saw AAHP giving free screenings at my local supermarket, I lined up for an exam. It was quick and painless-and surprising. A follow-up appointment indicated that I was at risk for cardiovascular disease. Armed with information and support from the AAHP, I took action to quit smoking, improve my diet, and get more exercise. Today, my numbers-and my life-are headed in the right direction."

Take Good Health to Heart

Cardiovascular Health

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) ranks as the number one killer of African Americans, claiming the lives of 36.3 percent of the more than 291,000 Blacks who die each year. Cancer follows, killing 21.5 percent. All other causes of death account for about 42 percent. African Americans are 29 percent more likely to die from heart disease than non Hispanic whites. The mission of the African American Health Program is to help to eliminate the health disparity of cardiovascular disease in the Black population of Montgomery County, Md. There are multiple causes of cardiovascular disease, but also multiple ways to prevent and manage it.