OKLAHOMA CITY, March 11, 2026 — The YMCA associations in Oklahoma City have joined forces with the American Heart Association to increase access to blood‑pressure resources and lifesaving heart‑health education throughout the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. This collaboration comes at a critical time: 38.4% of Oklahoma adults have been told by a health professional that they have high blood pressure, ranking Oklahoma among the highest‑prevalence states in the nation.
In Oklahoma City alone, 36.1% of adults report having hypertension, highlighting the statewide urgency of improved awareness and prevention.
As part of the initiative, the American Heart Association is providing 16 validated self‑measured blood pressure (SMBP) stations across YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City branches, equipped with educational materials and staff training. These stations will make routine monitoring easier for thousands of Oklahomans who rely on their local YMCA for health, wellness, and community.
High blood pressure is often called a “silent killer” because most people experience no symptoms. The American Heart Association emphasizes that knowing blood‑pressure numbers — and acting on them — is one of the most effective ways to prevent heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
“High blood pressure remains one of the most serious health threats facing Oklahomans today. It often goes undetected, yet it has a profound impact on heart health, stroke risk, and overall well-being,” said Megan Charlot, community impact director for the American Heart Association in Oklahoma and staff lead for this work with YMCA. “This collaboration puts heart health resources where they matter most, right in the community. Providing easy access to blood pressure checks at neighborhood YMCAs helps remove barriers and encourages early prevention that can save lives.”
The YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City sees the partnership as a natural extension of the organization’s commitment to strengthening communities.
“The YMCA is committed to strengthening community well being and this partnership with the American Heart Association aligns perfectly with that mission, said Sara Robinson-Holmes, associate vice pesident of membership of YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City. “Offering self measured blood pressure stations ensures our members and guests have the tools they need to take charge of their health.”
With YMCA branches serving communities of every age, background, and income level, the collaboration between the two organizations has the ability to reach tens of thousands of Oklahomans where they already gather, learn, and invest in their health.
The American Heart Association and the YMCA encourage residents to visit their nearest YMCA of Greater OKC branch, learn how to use a blood pressure station, and begin regularly checking their numbers to maintain or improve heart health.
# # #
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 a 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
Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
