BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) – High blood pressure is a key risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
Med Center Health announced the launch of the “Embracing Community Care” program Wednesday. The program aims to equip dental clinics with essential tools, including tabletop blood pressure machines and cuffs, according to a release. The program also provides hypertension screenings that connect adult patients with appropriate medical care.
High blood pressure is affecting more than 100 million Americans, and the American Heart Association is focusing on combining oral health and overall health care by training participating dental providers to identify and monitor hypertension.
“Many individuals visit dental clinics regularly, which presents a unique opportunity to detect and intervene early in patients’ blood pressure management,” the release said.
The program funds are granted by the Dental Dental of Kentucky Foundation to address high blood pressure.
“At Delta Dental of Kentucky, we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to support the ‘Embracing Community Care’ initiative,” the release said. “Together, we can ensure that every Kentuckian has a healthy and happy smile.”
As part of the program, the American Heart Association encourages dental patients to regularly monitor their blood pressure and communicate with healthcare providers to develop strategies for better control.
For more information visit the American Heart Association’s website.
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