Effects of a Community Population Health Initiative on Blood Pressure Control in Latinos

Background Hypertension remains one of the most important, modifiable cardiovascular risk factors. Yet, the largest minority ethnic group (Hispanics/Latinos) often have different health outcomes and behavior, making hypertension management more difficult. We explored the effects of an American Heart Association-sponsored population health intervention aimed at modifying behavior of Latinos living in Texas. Methods and Results We enrolled 8071 patients, and 5714 (65.7%) completed the 90-day program (58.5 years ±11.7; 59% female) from July 2016 to June 2018. Navigators identified patients with risk factors; initial and final blood pressure ( BP ) readings were performed in the physician's office; and interim home measurements were recorded telephonically. The intervention incorporated home BP monitoring, fitness and nutritional counseling, and regular follow-up. Primary outcomes were change in systolic BP and health-related quality of life. Using a univariate paired-samples pre-post design, we found an average 5.5% (7.6-mm Hg) improvement in systolic BP (139.1 versus 131.5, t=10.32, P