Nearly half of adults (46%) have high blood pressure in the United States. 

High blood pressure is most prevalent in racial and ethnic minority populations and is often referred to as "The Silent Killer" because there are typically no warning signs or symptoms.

High blood pressure is a key, modifiable, risk factor for both heart disease and stroke, which are two of the leading causes of death in the United States.

Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring is an evidence-based program the Y offers that features personalized support as participants develop the habit of monitoring their blood pressure.

Research shows that the process of recording blood pressure at least twice a month over a period of four months lowers blood pressure. 

Program Goals:
•    Reduce blood pressure
•    Improve blood pressure management
•    Increase awareness of triggers that elevate pressure
•    Enhance knowledge to develop healthier eating habits, including learning the Dash Diet and sodium vs. salt facts 

Who  Can Participate?
•    Adults (18+) diagnosed with high blood pressure

Where to Participate?

• Online across North Carolina
• In person at some NC YMCAs

Free for Qualifying Carolina Complete Health Members
Carolina Complete Health (CCH), a Medicaid insurer, has partnered with the Y to provide the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program to its qualifying members at no charge extra charge to its members in Medicaid regions 3, 4 and 5.

• Offered online only for CCH members
• CCH members can learn more and access a physician referral form here. 

Testimonial

"The blood pressure self-monitoring  sessions were very helpful to me and taught me how to take my blood pressure correctly. I always felt that I might not be doing it correctly. 

Now I am confident and feel safe that I am doing it the right way and no longer stressed about it. And I was given a new blood pressure kit! I was also blessed to have lectures on food health, such as reading food labels, knowing how to check sodium content, the benefit
of watching calories, knowing healthy food choices, etc."

--YMCA Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program Participant