Alabama has one of the highest rates of hypertension in the nation, ranking 47th overall. Approximately 42.7% of the population has been diagnosed with high blood pressure—10 percentage points higher than the national average. The West Alabama Cardiac Health (WACH) program operates in nine counties with the goal of improving cardiovascular health and reducing rates of uncontrolled hypertension.
WACH provides community-based education to increase awareness about blood pressure—what the numbers mean, what affects them, and how individuals can take control of their heart health. In collaboration with the American Heart Association (AHA), WACH has implemented a Self-Monitoring Blood Pressure (SMBP) initiative across its target counties.
Together, WACH and AHA created SMBP kits that include in-person training materials, learning guides, tracking logs, and blood pressure monitors. Initially placed in public libraries through AHA’s efforts, these kits have since been expanded to additional community-access points such as community centers, housing authorities, barbershops and salons, and parks and recreation centers. The kits can be checked out for 14–16 days for personal use, free of charge.
These SMBP kits empower individuals not only to monitor and understand their own blood pressure but also to access local health resources. Tracking logs can be shared with healthcare providers—many of whom serve patients with low or no income—to help guide care and treatment. By placing these tools in familiar, easily accessible locations, the program meets people where they are while linking them directly to essential health services.
While rural living is common in Alabama, access to accurate health information and practical resources often is not. Through this partnership, WACH and AHA are working to eliminate barriers and support communities in achieving better heart health—making it both attainable and sustainable.
