The American Heart Association (AHA) has launched the "Embracing Community Care" initiative, funded by the Delta Dental of Kentucky Foundation, to expand high blood pressure screenings at dental clinics.
The purpose of the initiative is to encourage patients to monitor their blood pressure and work with healthcare providers for better control. The program provides dental offices with blood pressure machines and cuffs to screen adult patients and connect them with medical care.
Participating clinics will receive training on best practices for screening and patient education. Also, they will provide materials on blood pressure monitoring and the importance of medical follow-ups.
Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, highlighting the need for proactive management. With over 100 million Americans affected, dental visits provide a valuable chance for early detection, according to the AHA.
