Buena Salud (Good Health) Americas, Community Initiatives for Cardiovascular Health in the Americas

Prevention and control of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is at the forefront of health-related development goals to improve the health and well-being of the world’s population.  The UN General Assembly stressed the need for action and a coordinated response, adopting a resolution for the prevention and management of CVDs highlighting community based models.  This effort emphasizes the need for closer international cooperation in the area of public health, and the sharing and exchange of best practices, resources, and training to build the local capacity and infrastructure to undertake the rising prevalence, morbidity, and mortality from CVDs.   

As part of its commitment to confront the burden of CVDs and to achieve health for all in the Americas, the National Alliance for Hispanic Health, the Pan-American Health Organization, and the Colombian Ministry of Health, convened a joint leadership meeting with representation from community-based agencies from the US and civil society/non-governmental organizations from South American countries.  The purpose was to share successful community-based practices for the prevention and control of CVDs among Hispanic communities in the U.S. and community initiatives in South American countries, and develop ways to improve local partnerships to better serve communities across the Americas. 

The meeting focused on community-based models for action addressing tobacco prevention, promoting healthy diet and exercise, and supporting self-management practices with emphasis on Hispanics affected with CVDs and diabetes.  The presentation will highlight the development and implementation of partnership activities; profile some of the best practices presented at the meeting; and, provide recommendations for action.