Sister to Sister

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Sister to Sister, in partnership with Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, is launching the Blood Pressure Express, a mobile community health initiative designed to bring heart health awareness to Newark residents.

A kickoff event was held on March 4 with the New Jersey Commissioner for Health and Senior Services and Sister to Sister.

Darryl Dawkins, former NBA star and Community Relations Ambassador for the New Jersey Nets, and Kevin Rigby, VP of Public Affairs for Novartis Pharmaceuticals, show support for the BP Express.

A nurse on the BP Express Van provides a free blood pressure screening to a patient.

The program features the BP Express Van, a mobile unit staffed by nurses who will provide free blood pressure screenings and distribute educational materials to thousands of Newark residents from March to June 2008.

The BP Express Van will make planned visits to locations throughout the city, including:

• Churches
• Community centers
• Government buildings
• Companies
• Shopping centers

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death among Americans. In Newark, 21% of city residents are living with cardiovascular disease.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a leading risk factor for heart disease. It is often called the silent killer because high blood pressure has no symptoms but can lead to serious illness, including stroke, heart attack, eye and kidney problems, and even death. Click here to learn more about preventing and controlling high blood pressure.

For more information about the Blood Pressure Express:
Call 877-4-BPXPRS or send an email to JWilcox@viziongroup.net.