Abstract Text: There has been extensive research conducted concerning major risk factors and behaviors associated with cardiovascular disease such as: diabetes, hypertension, elevated blood cholesterol, a high fat diet, obesity, physical inactivity, and smoking. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and African American heart disease rates are among the highest in the world. Among African Americans, the risk factors and behaviors associated with, as well as the complications of heart disease are more prevalent than other populations. Researchers have collected statistical data concerning the health practices, rates of mortality, and occurrence of illness in this high-risk population. In order to create culturally appropriate messages, communicators must be aware of the attitudes, beliefs, and values of their priority audience. However, when conducting extensive literature reviews health communicators find that little research has been gathered about African American attitudes, beliefs, and values. This presentation will discuss some formative research strategies that may be helpful when gathering data about and tailoring messages to African American populations.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: African American, Behavioral Research
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.