BOWLING GREEN, Ky. - Med Center Health's Dental Clinic and the American Heart Association are teaming up to address high blood pressure.
According to Med Center Health, the initiative, called "Embracing Community Care," is funded through the Delta Dental of Kentucky Foundation.
Health officials say the program wants to give dental clinics essential tools, including tabletop blood pressure machines and cuffs, to check adult patients with hypertension and connect them to medical care.
"The mission of the American Heart Association and the work being done at Med Center Health's Dental Clinic reflects our shared commitment to improving lives and creating a brighter, healthier future for all Kentuckians," said Brad Drew, hpilanthropy and communications manager, Delta Dental of Kentucky. "At Delta Dental of Kentucky, we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to support the 'Embracing Community Care' initiative. Together, we can ensure that every Kentuckian has a healthy and happy smile."
According to health officials, the American Heart Association wants to work to train dental providers to identify and monitor hypertension. One benefit of this is that many individuals visit dental clinics regularly, presenting an opportunity to detect hypertension.
Participating dental offices will also offer educational materials about regular blood pressure monitoring and communication with primary care providers.
Hypertension is a leading contributor to heart attack and stroke, conditions that require immediate medical intervention, according to health officials.
To learn more about blood pressure and how you can keep yours in check, click here.