Promotoras (Community Health Workers ) Improve Heart Health among Latinos in Rural and Urban Settings

Goals: The project was aimed at reducing cardiovascular health disparities by implementing an evidence-based curriculum (Su Corazón Su Vida) delivered by promotores in underserved communities.  This 11-session intervention was designed to promote heart health through interactive exercises and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. Objectives:  Twenty-five promotores were trained in the curriculum; they in turn reached 750 participants through community workshops. In order to reach Latinos in both urban and rural settings, we focused on two areas in Southern California: one rural area (Kern County) and one urban community in Los Angeles. Methods: A community-based participatory research approach was taken as it involved the collaboration of a research institution and a community-based organization with vast experience with promotores.  Promotoras obtained human subjects certification, were trained on research protocols, obtained informed consent, collected de-identified pre and post data from community participants, and contributed to data interpretation as community advisory board members. Findings:  Compared to baseline, 3-month posttest data indicate community participants made significant changes in: 1) the amount of physical activity participants perform (p < .001); 2) consumption of fruits and vegetables (p <.001); 3) overall knowledge of cardiovascular health; and 4) the proportion of participants who have implemented lifestyle changes in their households to decrease their risk for cardiovascular disease.  Discussion: This project adds to the evidence-base that a promotore can be effective in improving community health.  In addition, promotores can be active partners in a research project with appropriate training and supervision.  A 12-month follow-up with community participants is currently underway.