Conducting cardiovascular disease research and community engaement: The Jackson heart study experience

Background: The Jackson Heart Study (JHS) is a large, community-based, observational study of African Americans residing in the tri-county areas of Hinds, Madison and Rankin counties that make up the Jackson Mississippi, metropolitan statistical area (MSA). The JHS has embraced a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach that provides avenues for community residents to become actively involved in the full range of research-related activities and encourages scientists to access collected data for research purposes. This presentation showcases selected summary data of the health characteristics of JHS cohort and describes the JHS processes for facilitating scientific productivity and promoting community engagement.

Methods: Exams include medical history, physical examination, blood/urine analytes and interview questions on areas such as: physical activity; stress, coping and spirituality; racism and discrimination; socioeconomic position; access to health care; Annual Follow-up and cohort surveillance. Scientists and investigators are invited to publish articles that use JHS data and to disseminate and communicate study results to the broader community. The scientific writing process is managed, reviewed, and approved by the JHS Publications and Presentations Sub-Committee (P&P). Community Partnership/Outreach includes; providing avenues to reduce health disparities; exposing/engaging students in health disparities discussions; and regular community gatherings.

Results: Selected CVD indicators are: BMI = 31.75; Glucose = 99.98; Diabetes Status =18.79%; Hypertension Status = 37.10%; Fasting LDL Cholesterol (mg/dl) = 126.66; Fasting HDL Cholesterol (mg/dl) = 51.77; Fasting TCL (mg/dl) =199.30; Fasting Triglyceride Level (mg/dl) = 06.10.

Discussion: The JHS employs innovative strategies to engage the public and the scientific community.