“Differences in health based on race, ethnicity, or economics can be reduced but will require public awareness and understanding of which groups are most vulnerable, which disparities are most correctable through available interventions, and whether disparities are being resolved over time.”—Thomas R. Frieden, MD, MPH, Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

The city of Pittsburgh has been in the national spotlight lately for its revitalization—in appearance, spirit, and even economic momentum. But, what about the people of Pittsburgh? How well are we doing?

In terms of health, we should be concerned. According to findings recently published in the report Allegheny County Health in Black and White, produced by the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh, the Allegheny County Health Department and the University of Pittsburgh’s University Center for Social and Urban Research, we have some work to do, especially with regard to minority health and health disparities. It’s time to pause, refocus our game and take charge of our health.

Pittsburgh is known as the Most Livable City, but what many do not know; it is also considered a top Hot Spot. Not for vacation destinations, but for hypertension. A recent analysis conducted by Sperling’s BestPlaces, an independent research firm, in partnership with Takeda Pharmaceuticals North American Inc., found Pittsburgh to have the sixth highest rate of hypertension and hypertension risk factors in the country for Hypertension Hot Spots.

BLOOD PRESSURE TESTING

Hypertension, or high blood pressure as it is commonly known, is a condition of elevated blood pressure. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps out blood. It is the second leading preventing risk factor for death in the United States and like many other diseases, hits African-Americans the hardest. It is also considered a silent killer, because it virtually has no exact symptoms. If untreated it can lead to serious problems, such as heart or kidney disease, stroke, congestive heart failure or even death.

This series on health disparities in the Pittsburgh region is the result of collaboration between the New Pittsburgh Courier, Community PARTners, a core service of the University of Pittsburgh’s Clinical and Translational Institute and the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh. Pitt assistant professors Michael Yonas, DrPH, and Jessica Griffin Burke, PhD, and professor Ronald D. Stall, PhD, co-direct Community PARTners with Esther L. Bush, president and CEO of the Urban League. Dr. Yonas recently sat down to speak with Ms. Bush about the partnership.

CTSI PARTICIPATES?IN?BRADDOCK COMMUNITY DAY (SUMMER 2011)

MY: Why is “Take charge of your health today. Be informed. Be involved.” important to you?

(ARA)—Diabetes is a serious disease that affects nearly 26 million children and adults in the United States. Early diagnosis is critical to successful treatment and delaying or preventing some of its complications such as heart disease, blindness, kidney disease, stroke, amputation and death.

This year, T-fal has joined the American Diabetes Association’s Stop Diabetes movement to educate and teach consumers about healthful eating. By following the simple steps below, families can better understand their risk and take the necessary steps to help combat this disease.