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| Media contacts: Alicia Sands Lurry, 404/616-6389, alurry@emory.edu |
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WHO: Inginia Genao, MD, assistant professor of medicine, Division of General Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, and director of Multicultural Affairs Department at Grady Memorial Hospital; Flavia Mercado, MD, assistant clinical professor, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, and associate director of Multicultural Affairs at Grady Hospital; and other volunteer healthcare professionals. WHAT: Free Blood Pressure Screenings for individuals in metro Atlanta, in recognition of Minority Health Month. WHEN: 3 to 5 p.m., Sunday, April 27, 2003 WHERE: Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 353 Peachtree St., NE, Atlanta WHY: To educate individuals, including Hispanics and other minorities, about the dangers of high blood pressure and the importance of controlling high blood pressure. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a serious problem that can lead to stroke, heart disease and other conditions. It affects one in four adults in the United States, and disproportionately affects African-Americans, Native Americans and Hispanics. High blood pressure can be prevented and controlled by maintaining a healthy weight; losing weight, if overweight; watching salt intake; not smoking; limiting alcohol to one or two drinks a day; exercising; and eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, dairy products, whole grains, fish and lean meats. If lifestyle changes do not control high blood pressure, medications also can help. For more information, please call Laurine Tiema, health program coordinator, at (404) 616-0437. |