From Research to Action: A Local Coalition for Addressing Social Determinants of Hypertension in Quibdó (Colombia)

Background:

Local coalitions have been widely used to address complex health problems experienced by marginalized urban communities in the United States. However, fewer similar experiences have been documented in urban areas of Latin America. Coalitions promote the participation of different stakeholders and contribute to develop comprehensive approaches for research and intervention. Thus, coalitions can play a key role in addressing social determinants of hypertension, a growing public health problem in urban areas of low- and middle-income countries.

Data and Methods.  

A qualitative case-study in Quibdó, capital of the department/state of Chocó (Colombia), was the starting point of the coalition. In this study, social actors identified social determinants and processes of stratification and marginalization that shape living conditions and influence hypertension risk and disparities. The nursing department of the public university of the city served as initial lead organization to contact organizations, community leaders and gatekeepers. Twelve organizations from the community, government and academic agreed to participate and created coalition. Initially, the coalition established its mission, goals, and operating structure. By using principles of the community-based participatory research the coalition meets regularly, creates opportunities for building capacity, and works on addressing determinants of hypertension in the city.

 Results & Implications.

In the context of a marginalized multi-ethnic city, this local coalition engaged different types of participants, who have been involved in efforts to increase capacity to understand and influence social determinants of hypertension in Quibdó. The coalition adopted a long-term action plan focused on achieving prevention, control and equity goals.