Heart Walk, Heart Health: An Evaluation Of Cardiovascular Wellness Among Dallas Heart Walk Participants
Benjamin Michael Ramirez
University of Arkansas, Department of Sociology & Criminology and The University of Alabama, School of Social Work
Samantha Elizabeth Smith
University of Arkansas, Department of Sociology & Criminology and The University of Alabama, School of Social Work
Abstract
This study examines the impact of self-reported health behaviors and the health belief theory on participants in heart-healthy events, such as the Dallas Heart Walk, which supports the American Heart Association's mission to reduce cardiovascular disease and stroke. The American Heart Association developed Life's Simple 7® to assess cardiovascular health through seven metrics, including blood glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol, diet, weight, physical activity, and smoking status. Heart disease and stroke are leading causes of death in the United States, and the AHA's goal is to improve cardiovascular health and reduce deaths by 20% by 2020. The study aims to understand how participants' health beliefs and behaviors align with these goals and whether engagement in heart-healthy events influences their cardiovascular health.