In a recent government meeting, Mike Muscarillo from Baptist Health presented an overview of the Heart Strong Kentucky initiative, a five-year grant program funded by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) aimed at addressing cardiovascular disease disparities in specific neighborhoods in Kentucky. The initiative focuses on Census Tract 302, which includes areas in west Louisville and Hopkinsville, where over 53% of residents are identified as having risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

The Heart Strong Kentucky project is a collaborative effort involving multiple partners, including UK Healthcare, Mercy Health, and local community organizations. The program aims to improve outcomes related to hypertension and high cholesterol through community engagement and education. Muscarillo highlighted the establishment of community coalitions, health fairs, and educational workshops as key strategies to promote cardiovascular health.

Two interns from the University of Kentucky, Ethan Morgan and Jackson Miller, have been hired to assist with the initiative, working on community outreach and health assessments. Their efforts include mapping addresses within the census tract to facilitate health mailings and organizing community events, such as blood pressure screenings and health fairs.

A significant achievement of the initiative has been the distribution of 250 blood pressure monitoring devices to residents during various events, aimed at encouraging health awareness and screenings. The project also includes plans for expanding the Greenway Trail through the area, which is expected to enhance community health and connectivity.

Overall, the Heart Strong Kentucky initiative represents a focused effort to tackle cardiovascular health issues in underserved communities, leveraging local partnerships and resources to foster better health outcomes.