Community health worker-led intervention to reduce hypertension in Black churches
Blood Pressure Lowering Strategies to Eliminate Hypertension Disparities
This study is testing whether a program led by community health workers in Black churches can help people with high blood pressure improve their health better than regular care.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 1176 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Tulane University Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy, radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (New Orleans, Louisiana) |
| Trial ID | NCT06133322 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
The BLESSED trial aims to address the high rates of hypertension and related cardiovascular diseases in Black populations by implementing a community health worker (CHW)-led multifaceted intervention in predominantly Black churches. This cluster randomized trial will recruit 1,176 adults with hypertension from 42 churches in the Greater New Orleans area and compare the effectiveness of the CHW-led strategy against enhanced usual care over an 18-month period. The study will also evaluate various implementation outcomes, including acceptability and sustainability, using the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) framework. Participants will receive health coaching, lifestyle change support, and access to community-based healthcare resources.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include Black adults aged 18 and older with hypertension who are associated with participating churches.
Not a fit: Patients with recent hospitalizations for heart failure or heart attacks, current cancer treatment, or severe chronic kidney disease may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly lower blood pressure and reduce cardiovascular disease risk among Black community members.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with community-based interventions targeting hypertension in similar populations, indicating a promising approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Men or women aged ≥18 years 2. Community members associated with the participating churches (church members and their families and friends) 3. Systolic blood pressure ≥130 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥80 mm Hg 4. Willing and able to participate in the intervention. 5. Willing and able to sign written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Prior hospitalization in the last 3 months for chronic heart failure or heart attack 2. Current diagnosis of cancer requiring chemotherapy or radiation therapy 3. Stage-5 chronic kidney disease requiring chronic dialysis or transplant 4. Pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the next 18 months 5. Planning to move out of the Greater New Orleans area during the next year
Where this trial is running
New Orleans, Louisiana
- Tulane University — New Orleans, Louisiana, United States (Recruiting)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.