Combatting the “silent killer”

Riviera Beach, Fla. Aug. 7, 2026 – Riviera Beach residents can now have greater access to tools that support heart health, thanks to a new blood pressure -measuring site that has opened at Pleasant Heights Missionary Baptist Church, 1297 W. 34th Street. The site includes a tabletop blood pressure kiosk, as well as booklets explaining the proper way to check  blood pressure, guidance on what the readings mean, and tips for staying healthy.

The site, which launched during the week of July 20, is now open. It was provided by the American Heart Association, whose mission is to be a relentless force for longer, healthier lives, and financially supported by Palm Beach Health Network.

“We want to make sure that “health” is something that is available to everyone,” said Brittani Jean-Phillipe, community impact director for the Heart Association’s Palm Beach County office. “By putting this site right in the middle of the community, we’re helping make it easier for people to take control of their own well-being.”

According to the American Heart Association, nearly half of American adults (about 120 million people) have high blood pressure, or hypertension, which can lead to serious health consequences such as stroke, heart disease, kidney disease, vision loss and sexual dysfunction if left untreated. The best way to know if you have high blood pressure is to check it routinely and talk about it with your health care provider.

High blood pressure commonly is known as the “silent killer,” because as many as 36% of patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure are not aware of their condition.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries:

Gina Sbrilli | Gina.sbrilli@heart.org 
 

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org