The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #61386

Charmaine Fitzig, RN, DrPH, Community Health Promotion & Public Health Services, New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation, 346 Broadway, Room 1136, New York, NY 10013 and Evelyn G. Borges, CHES, Bellevue Hospital Center, NYC Health and Hospitals Corp, New York, NY 10016, (212)562-7988, borgese@nychhc.org.

In 1999, 40% of the Nation’s deaths were due to Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), which is now the major killer of women in the United States. Among the risk factors for CVD are: smoking, high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, physical inactivity, and obesity. In 2002, with a new President of the Health & Hospitals Corporation (NYCHHC), an emphasis was placed on Health Promotion activities to address some of the major health risk factors. NYCHHC is the nation’s largest municipal hospital system. Several programs emphasizing health promotion are in place i.e. smoking cessation, asthma awareness, cancer screening, etc. In 2000, a survey was conducted in one facility to assess the health status of the workforce. Some of the health risks reported were diabetes, hypertension, high blood cholesterol, and smoking. In response, a pilot program was designed and implemented to address some of the identified health deficits. OBJECTIVES: The participants will be able to implement a variety of activities, which can be effective in responding to cardiovascular risk factors. Many of the activities can be replicated at other locations. METHODS: Low impact exercise programs were designed. Colorful, attractive, witty notices/fliers/posters were designed, and posted at strategic locations. RESULTS: 75 people registered. Over 50% signed up for an average of 2 programs. All participants have self-reported positive changes in their behaviors. CONCLUSION: The participants have demonstrated that their newfound knowledge on healthy behaviors has been incorporated in their work and home lifestyles.

Learning Objectives:

• The participants will be able to implement a variety of activities, which can be effective in responding to cardiovascular risk factors. Many of the activities can be replicated at other locations.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.