High blood pressure is a silent threat—often with no symptoms until it’s too late. But in Delaware, libraries are helping to change that.
The American Heart Association and Delaware Libraries have teamed up to offer blood pressure cuff loaner programs at libraries across the state. Residents can check out a cuff for free—just like a book—and monitor their blood pressure from the comfort of home.
“You can’t manage what you don’t measure,” said Yinka Isichei, community impact manager for the American Heart Association in Delaware. “This program empowers people to take control of their heart health with the support of a trusted community resource.”
Nearly half of adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure, and many don’t even know it. Of those diagnosed, about 75% don’t have their blood pressure under control. Regular at-home monitoring is a proven way to help manage hypertension and reduce risk of heart attack, stroke and other serious complications.
This community-based initiative is part of the Association’s national commitment to reducing health disparities and improving access to care. Watch this short video to learn more about the program: DE Loaner Blood Pressure Cuff Program
For more information on blood pressure, visit heart.org/hbp.