Badger Heart Program: health screenings targeted to increase cardiovascular awareness in women at four northern sites in Wisconsin

Abstract

Purpose: This study reports the results of initial statewide health screenings of the Badger Heart Program (BHP), which aims to increase the cardiovascular health awareness and health status of women living in Wisconsin.

Methods: In May 2004, the BHP provided cardiovascular disease risk screenings to women in 4 geographic areas throughout Wisconsin. Screening participants were informed of their results and counseled on issues concerning diet, exercise, smoking cessation, medications, and/or visiting their primary health care professional. Data collected included total cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins, low-density lipoproteins (LDL), triglycerides, blood pressure (BP), blood glucose measurements, height and weight, along with a brief survey of medical history, family history, smoking status, and current medication use. After the screening, participants were asked to volunteer for an opt-in 6-month educational program.

Results: A total of 318 women participated. The majority screened were Caucasian (95.9%) with an average age of 58 years (standard deviation [SD] = 13.2). Participants' blood pressure and LDL goals were determined from the risk profile assessment. According to national guidelines, an optimal blood pressure goal of < 140/90 was recommended for the majority of the participants (294 [92.5%]), while an optimal blood pressure goal of < 120/80 was recommended for only 24 (7.5%) participants. An optimal LDL value <100 was recommended for 48 (15.4%) participants, an LDL goal of <130 was recommended for 106 (33.3%), and an LDL goal of less than <160 was recommended for 157 (50.5%) participants. Of screened participants, 35% were not at BP goal, 32.4% were not at LDL goal, and 53.5% were not at both goals.

Conclusion: While the number of participants who were at BP and/or LDL goal is higher than what is generally reported in the literature, there is still opportunity for significant improvement. A follow-up analysis including re-screening of individuals aimed at measuring the improvements in CVD profile post educational interventions will occur in November.