High blood pressure disproportionately affects Black adults in the U.S. As a risk factor for many health conditions, it is important for adults to manage their blood pressure. Having it checked often can help.

On Sept. 24, Priority Partners Community Health Advocates set up a blood pressure station at the Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival, which celebrates the culture, perseverance and contributions of Africans, African Americans and Caribbean people of African descent. During the event, Joana Nsereko, a nurse with Johns Hopkins HealthCare’s Quality Improvement department, and other volunteers checked the blood pressure of approximately 100 attendees. Additionally, CHA Valencia Henriques was able to inform attendees about Priority Partners’ services and connect them to helpful resources.

Dr. Nina Everett, chief medical officer with Priority Partners, remarked how pleased she was with the event and with Priority Partners support of it. Priority Partners hopes there is an opportunity to participate in the festival again next year.