University blood pressure initiative launched
The University’s Campus Health Services has launched a new initiative that will enable students, faculty, staff and administrator to monitor their blood pressure on a daily basis.
To address the need for blood pressure screening and education on campus, Campus Health Service is distributing blood pressure devices to strategic locations on the University’s Main Campus and DSU Downtown. University members will be able to check their blood pressure as often as they desire.
“I am excited about this initiative because it provides members of our community with the opportunity to monitor their blood pressure and proactively seek medical care if their numbers are elevated,” said Dr. Michelle Fisher, Associate Vice President of Campus Health Services. “Hypertension (high blood pressure) increases one’s risk for heart disease and stroke. According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2021 hypertension was a primary or contributing cause of 691,095 deaths in the United States; therefore, early diagnosis and proper management of blood pressure can save lives.”
The initiative is the result of a partnership with the American Heart Association, which has donated 30 blood pressure devices for use on campus.
“The decisions we make today will affect our tomorrow, “said Tracey Phillips, the University’s Health Promotions Specialist. “We know that prevention is the key to overall well-being and the impact of having the blood pressure kits available to employees is a great start to the process. DSU cares about their employees and their well-being. This is why this initiative is important.”
Each monitoring location on campus includes a device in a location with clear instructions on how individuals can accurately self-monitor their blood pressure. Monitoring stations include proper positioning posters, basic information about blood pressure, risks associated with high blood pressure, and how to contact Campus Health Services.
The strategic locations for the blood pressure devices include the Administration Building (all four floors), the University Police Department, Athletics, MLK Jr. Student Center, the William C. Jason Library, OSCAR Bldg., as well as different sites at DSU Downtown.