UnitedHealth Group takes heart disease prevention seriously.
In African-American communities, the growing prevalence of hypertension is reaching critical levels. African-Americans are one-and-a-half times more likely to suffer from heart disease than whites and nearly two times more likely to be afflicted by a fatal stroke.
UnitedHealth Group has joined PEACE of Heart, a grassroots campaign to address heart disease among African-Americans and other medically underserved communities.
PEACE of Heart provides free screenings and preventive health care, focusing on hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. To combat these diseases, UnitedHealth Group has partnered with health organizations, including:
- American Heart Association
- Association of Black Cardiologists
- LabCorp
- National Association for Community Health Centers
- National Medical Association
- National Minority Quality Forum
- RainbowPUSH Coalition
- United Health Foundation
Read what our partners say about PEACE of Heart.
Together, we:
- Test for health conditions such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and body mass index
- Educate patients about how to control high blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as how to prevent heart disease
- Provide follow-up support by making recommendations for continued good health, and ensuring each person has a regular place to turn to for medical care
Nearly 1,300 people have been screened for hypertension, heart disease, and stroke through the PEACE of Heart campaign. The resulting statistics show the importance of our continued efforts.
For example:
- Nearly half were overweight or obese
- One-quarter had elevated blood pressure
- Half reported they did not have a regular place to turn to for medical care
