Center for the study of community health
With Every Heartbeat Is Life
Too many African Americans die of cardiovascular disease, particularly heart disease and stroke. Heart disease is the number one killer of African Americans, and stroke is the number three leading cause of death. The good news is that these diseases are preventable.
With Every Heartbeat Is Life is a heart health program created especially for African Americans by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This program is designed to help people build skills to make practical, lasting changes to help fight heart disease through information about tobacco cessation, exercise, healthy eating, and diabetes. Upon completion it is anticipated that participants will teach family, friends, and congregations how to create a healthier community.
For more information about the final report and results of With Every Heartbeat is Life and Congregations for Public Health, please see below:
The following modules are from the Facilitator Manual and include learning objectives, talking points, and participant activities.
- With Every Heartbeat Is Life (PDF)
This introduction provides Community Health Workers with the information needed to put a heart health project into action
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Heart disease is the #1 reason why people die in this country. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), part of NIH, created With Every Heartbeat Is Life to help African Americans prevent heart disease.
“If my mind can conceive it, and my heart can believe it, I know I can achieve it.” – Reverend Jesse Jackson
Heart disease develops over many years. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, heart disease can result in a heart attack. That is why it is important to know the warning signs of a heart attack and what to do if you experience them.
“There’s time enough but none to spare.” – Charles W. Chestnutt
Let’s move! We will discuss physical activity and how important it is to your heart health.
“It’s time for every one of us to roll up our sleeves and put ourselves at the top of the commitment list.” – Marian Wright Edelman
The facts don’t lie – more than 65 million people in the United States have high blood pressure. In this session, learn about the causes and risks.
“The time is always right to what is right.” – Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
In this session, learn the facts about cholesterol and how a “food makeover” can decrease your risk of heart disease.
“It is the mind that makes the body.” – Sojourner Truth
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle includes keeping a healthy weight. In this session, you will learn some important tips for fighting obesity.
“If you can somehow think and dream of success in small steps, every time you make a step, every time you accomplish a small goal, it gives you confidence to go on from there.” – John. H. Johnson
This session provides insight into preventing and controlling diabetes.
“Just don’t give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don’t think you can go wrong.” – Ella Fitzgerald
Learn how to plan and prepare traditional African American and soul food meals in a heart healthy way.
“In every conceivable manner, the family is the link to our past, bridge to our future.” – Alex Haley
Learn how to prepare quick, easy, and healthy meals.
“When people learn something better, they will do better.” – Juanita Green
In Alabama each year, 820 people die from exposure to second hand smoke. Learn about the impact of cigarette smoke and get some tips on how to kick the habit.
“Freedom is never given; it is won.” – A. Phillip Randolph
A review of information learned in Sessions 1 – 10.
“Success doesn’t come to you…you go to it.” – Marva Collins
For more information:
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and disparities in cardiovascular health exist among African Americans, American Indians, Hispanics, and Filipinos. The Community Health Worker Health Disparities Initiative of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) includes culturally tailored curricula taught by community health workers (CHWs) to improve knowledge and heart-healthy behaviors in these racial/ethnic groups.
