WASHOE COUNTY, NV March 18, 2024 – Libraries have long been a resource center for the community, and a new collaborative program with the American Heart Association is adding another important asset to libraries’ lending opportunities in Washoe County: blood pressure cuffs.
The American Heart Association has joined the Washoe County Library System to bring Libraries with Heart, a community-based blood pressure cuff loaner program designed to make it easier for people to keep track of their blood pressure. The program is being made possible through collaboration and support from the Washoe County Library System and Gene and the Betty Kopfhammer Charitable Fund at the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada.
Beginning Monday April 1, blood pressure kits can be checked out with a library card from nine participating Washoe County Library locations. Each kit contains a blood pressure cuff, instructions on how to properly take blood pressure readings, a blood pressure log to record measurements, and handouts about managing blood pressure. There will be universal size and XL units available.
“The American Heart Association is proud to extend its blood pressure work to libraries,” said Nicole Monzon, community impact director with the American Heart Association. “Blood pressure is a leading risk factor for heart disease, the nation’s No. 1 killer.”
An estimated 25.3% of adults in Washoe County have hypertension, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“Checking your blood pressure and understanding your numbers is an important part of taking charge of your health, especially if you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, or if it runs in your family,” said Monzon. “Measuring your blood pressure can help with early diagnosis, and you can check to see if your blood pressure is different at home versus when they take it at a medical office.”
High blood pressure is called the ‘silent killer’ because most of the time, it has no symptoms to indicate that something is wrong. When left untreated, the damage that high blood pressure does to your circulatory system is a significant contributing factor to heart attack, stroke, and other health threats. Public libraries like the Washoe County Library System have a unique ability to bring additional health resources to community members.
“Early intervention is the best way to head off health issues,” Library Director Jeff Scott said. “While heart rate monitors are plentiful with devices and apps, blood pressure monitoring can provide critical details for your health. I am happy we can provide these essential health tools to our community.”
The loaner cuffs are available to library patrons. Anyone who lives, works or goes to school in Washoe County is welcome to sign up for a library card. Visit washoecountylibrary.us or contact your local Washoe County Library location for additional information.
To learn more about high blood pressure and hypertension prevention, visit heart.org.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X, Instagram or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
Media Inquiries:
Christopher Calloway, Christopher.Calloway@heart.org
Public Inquiries:
1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721), heart.org and stroke.org