Ama tu Corazón: Promoting cardiovascular health through the use of a promotora model

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death among the Latino population, is responsible for nearly one quarter of all deaths in Latinos. Unfortunately, the health gap continues to widen in the Latino community as rates of diabetes, obesity and heart disease rise. The population faces unique barriers when compared to other racial and ethnic groups, including language, cultural and documentation barriers. This study evaluated a cardiovascular health education initiative, Ama tu Corazón, a program modeled after the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute's (NHLBI) Salud para su Carozon. The program utilized nationally recognized, culturally sensitive and language appropriate materials to reach the Latino population in the metro-Tampa area in an effort to raise awareness of the impact of lifestyle and behavior change on CVD. Ama tu Corazón utilized multiple methodologies for engaging clients, including: 1) dissemination of health education materials, 2) a nine-session cardiovascular health education course led by Promotoras (community health workers) and 3) individual counseling and follow-up by a health counselor for high risk patients. Participants who completed the Ama tu Corazón program demonstrated a greater awareness of modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, increased healthy lifestyle choices and action toward improving health status. Results for the study are continuous. However, evaluation of Ama tu Corazón concludes the Promotora model is vital in engaging Latinos and promoting cardiovascular health. The study also illustrated interest in peer education among the community and the need for ongoing research and education, as high rates (16%) of diabetes among participants were reported.