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Fegruary
6, 2007
Grant Applications Awarded - PDF
Little Rock --
The Arkansas Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Health, has awarded $300,000 to 18 non-profit organizations applying for grants from Boone, Craighead, Crittenden, Dallas, Independence, Jefferson, Poinsett, Pulaski, Searcy, Sebastian, Sharp, St. Francis, Little River, Union and Van Buren Counties to implement heart disease and stroke prevention strategies in their communities. Funded by a grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Cardiovascular Division the purpose is to support the National Healthy People 2010 Cardiovascular objectives. The grants will increase awareness about the prevention and control of heart disease and stroke and its risk factors (uncontrolled high blood pressure and high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, poor nutrition and physical inactivity); improve emergency response for heart attacks and stroke patients; increase awareness of signs and symptoms of heart disease and stroke and the need to call 9-1-1; improve quality of care for patients and reduce disparities.
Governor Mike Beebe said, ““I congratulate our state’s grant recipients for their vision and their commitment to making our state healthier.” Dr. Paul Halverson, Division of Health Director, said “The community grants initiative allows for expansion of existing heart and stroke activities in worksites, municipalities and health care settings statewide.”
Linda Faulkner, Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Section Chief, describes many of the intervention strategies that organizations can implement. “Communities can plan for many activities with program funds. Education can be provided to emergency health care providers and service professionals on the importance of providing patients with a diagnostic evaluation and appropriate treatment within three hours of onset. Communities can provide materials, training and mentoring to faith-based organizations to promote the American Heart Association’s “Search Your Heart” and similar programs. Schools can promote CPR trainings to faculty and staff. Municipalities and health facilities can place automatic external defibrillators (AED) in buildings of those most at risk and provide training on their use. Employee worksite wellness programs can be developed to improve health. Media campaigns can be implemented on heart attack and stroke warning signs and symptoms.
The list is almost endless of creative, interesting ways to get businesses, local organizations and citizens involved,” said Faulkner.
Arkansas is ranked first in the nation in stroke mortality and fifth in heart disease mortality. The mission of the Arkansas DHHS Division of Health’s Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Section is to reduce the burden of heart disease and stroke and eliminate disabilities among its citizens.
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