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Heart health takes teamwork: How Forge AHEAD and one UAB researcher are creating lasting change

Heart health takes teamwork: How Forge AHEAD and one UAB researcher are creating lasting change

High blood pressure silently affects over 42% of adults in Alabama, often without noticeable symptoms, making it a serious health risk. Managing this condition can be challenging, especially when striving for lasting changes that improve health.

 

Did You Know?

Black communities in particular experience higher impacts due to longstanding barriers to accessing health resources. Addressing these challenges requires community-driven solutions to support individuals and families in achieving better health outcomes.

With the support of the Forge AHEAD Center, Kaylee Crockett, Ph.D., a scholar and researcher at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) in the Department of Family and Community Medicine, is working to change this story. Her innovative Heart Care Pairs program, supported by two Forge AHEAD pilot awards, is helping patients and their loved ones team up for better heart health.

What Are Heart Care Pairs?

Heart Care Pairs believes everyone deserves support in managing their health. Through this program, individuals managing high blood pressure collaborate with a trusted partner, a spouse, family member, or close friend—to build healthier habits together.

 

“We believe that involving a supportive partner in their healthcare will empower patients to make lasting changes in their heart health and emotional well-being too. We really hope Heart Care Pairs will set a precedent that health is a team activity, not just for individuals to go alone”, Crockett explains.

Heart Care Pairs involves up to six sessions with a behavioral health specialist, either in person or through telehealth. Together, participants:

  • Learn practical ways to improve their diet, physical activity, sleep, and stress management.
  • Set shared goals for heart health.
  • Build communication skills to support each other in meaningful ways.

The result? Healthier hearts, stronger relationships, and a path toward lasting well-being.

 

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Kaylee Crockett, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Department of Family and Community Medicine, UAB Heersink School of Medicine

Learn more about Crockett.

Why Heart Care Pairs?

When someone has a trusted partner helping them with health-related decisions and lifestyle changes, they are more likely to succeed in managing their condition.

Why It Matters in Our Communities

In Alabama, Black adults and individuals living with lower incomes are disproportionately affected by hypertension. Without proper care, high blood pressure can lead to heart disease, strokes, and other serious conditions.

As a National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD)-funded center, Forge AHEAD partners with communities across Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana to develop solutions that work for the people they serve.

“Forge AHEAD supports active community engagement in the research process”, says Crockett. “Heart Care Pairs is meeting primary care patients and their potential care partners where they are and soliciting their feedback on the resources they need most for better heart health. With them, our program can yield the information, communication tools, and support they need to succeed.”

How Forge AHEAD Makes It Possible

Crockett’s projects—Adaptation and Initial Feasibility of a Primary Care-Based Dyadic Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Intervention: Heart Care Pairs (awarded in 2024) and Pilot Testing of a Primary Care-Based Dyadic Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Intervention: Heart Care Pairs (awarded in 2025)—are funded by the Forge AHEAD Pilot & Feasibility Scholars Program. These grants are designed to help researchers address local health disparities with tailored solutions.

Crockett’s Forge AHEAD Pilot Projects

Adaptation and Initial Feasibility of a Primary Care-based Dyadic Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Intervention: “Heart Care Pairs”

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a patient sitting on an examination table in an exam room, with

A mixed methods pilot feasibility study of a primary care-based dyadic cardiovascular risk reduction intervention: “Heart Care Pairs”

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This support allows Crockett to work directly with primary care clinics in Alabama, recruiting patients and their partners, listening to their needs, and refining the program to fit real-life challenges. The ultimate goal? A scalable model that can improve heart health across the South and beyond.

Heart Health Is a Community Effort

For years, differences in healthcare access have contributed to uneven health outcomes, leaving many feeling unheard. Researchers like Crockett are working to change this. By empowering individuals and their families to take charge of their heart health, they are helping to build stronger, healthier communities.

This Heart Health Month, Forge AHEAD invites you to join the effort. Whether it’s encouraging a loved one to visit the doctor, making small changes to your own habits, or spreading the word about programs like Heart Care Pairs, you can be part of the solution.

Get Involved with Forge AHEAD

Join us in expanding access to quality care and supporting innovative programs like Heart Care Pairs Learn more about our work, connect with our scholars, staff, or community partner organizations, and join the movement for healthier, more equitable communities.

Because better health starts with us—working together.

“We believe that involving a supportive partner in their healthcare will empower patients to make lasting changes in their heart health and emotional well-being too. We really hope Heart Care Pairs will set a precedent that health is a team activity, not just for individuals to go alone” -Crockett

Spotlight on the Birmingham Black Male Summit: Promoting health equity and community wellness for Black Men

Spotlight on the Birmingham Black Male Summit: Promoting Health Equity and Community Wellness for Black Men

The Birmingham Black Male Summit is on a mission to enhance the quality of life for Black men in Birmingham by addressing critical areas of mental, physical, emotional, and financial health. Through meaningful collaborations with organizations like the Forge AHEAD Center, the Summit amplifies its mission of advancing health equity. Dedicated to serving communities of color, the organization thrives through partnerships that amplify its impact.

As the Summit enters its third year, founder and coordinator Darrell Forte shares his deeply personal motivation for leading this transformative effort. For Darrell, this work is not just professional; it’s personal. Driven by a desire to change the narrative around Black men’s lives and to honor his father and brother’s legacies through community empowerment, Darrell emphasizes the importance of collaboration.

Partnerships with organizations like the Forge AHEAD Center are key to expanding their reach and increasing their influence in addressing health disparities and promoting equity for Black men and their families.

Forte shared, “Partnerships are essential to the work we do. They help us expand our reach, increase our credibility, and connect with the community in meaningful ways. When organizations like the Forge AHEAD Center collaborate with us, it’s not just about resources, it’s about building trust and amplifying impact.”

Breaking Barriers to Better Health

Authenticity and cultural sensitivity are central to the Summit’s approach. The third annual Summit, scheduled for February 8, 2025, promises to be a pivotal event for the Birmingham community. With a focus on empowering healthy lifestyles, the Summit will include a health panel, breakout sessions on critical topics like physical and mental health, financial wellness, leadership development, and more.

When asked what advice he would give to others addressing similar health issues in their communities, Darrell said, “Do it organically. Meet people where they are. Document but do it with care. Go out there with good intentions. Have culturally relevant language and have people who can be accessible at the event.”

This philosophy drives the Summit’s efforts to make health resources approachable and inclusive. For example, the organization addresses logistical barriers by providing school buses for student attendees, ensuring transportation barriers don’t limit participation. Darrell is also working to secure additional resources and partners to support the Summit’s success. The organization’s commitment to meeting people where they are and fostering trust ensures that their impact extends far beyond the event itself.

“Do it organically. Meet people where they are. Document but do it with care. Go out there with good intentions. Have culturally relevant language and have people who can be accessible at the event.”

Year-Round Initiatives Supporting Community Wellness
The Summit’s work extends beyond its annual conference. Monthly community activations, direct-service mentoring, and a private group chat for health discussions foster ongoing engagement. Early morning gym workouts and educational events bring people together, bridging gaps and promoting understanding across the African diaspora.

A new resource guide—covering local healthcare providers, grocery stores, and essential services—is in development to further support community members. Available in both physical and online formats, this tool aims to meet people where they are.

2025 Summit Highlights: Education, Empowerment, and Action

This year’s Summit will feature keynote speakers who are leaders in health equity, entrepreneurship, and community resilience such as Derrick Brooms, Ph.D., professor and executive director of the Black Men’s Research Institute at Morehouse College, Abdie Mohamed, lead cloud governance engineer at Lockheed Martin, and Damion Wright, a leader from Intuit, the parent company of Mailchimp, TurboTax, and Credit Karma. A health panel led by experts will address critical health topics.

Feedback from past attendees highlights the Summit’s transformative impact. From success stories shared by community members to personal testimonials from Darrell’s own family, the event continues to change lives.

Alabama ranks 3rd to last in the US in deaths due to heart disease.

Source

A Special Focus on Heart Health During American Heart Month

As we enter February, American Heart Month, the Birmingham Black Male Summit’s commitment to promoting heart health takes on special significance. Darrell shares a poignant personal story about his grandfather, who suffered a heart attack at just 42 years old. Stories like this reinforce the importance of regular check-ups and proactive health monitoring.

When asked what he wishes more people knew about heart health, Darrell said, “There is no age [minimum].” He emphasized that “heart disease has no name. It can be you. That’s why getting your blood pressure checked is important.”

The Summit’s inclusion of topics like heart-health aligns with its broader mission to foster healthier lifestyles through education, free health screenings, and community engagement. By addressing preventable conditions like hypertension and raising awareness about cardiovascular disease, the Summit is saving lives and reshaping health outcomes for Black men in Birmingham.

This February, as we reflect on the importance of heart health, let’s recognize the incredible work of the Birmingham Black Male Summit. Their efforts are a powerful reminder that improving community health begins with trust, education, and action.

Join us in driving cardiovascular health equity by registering for the 2025 Birmingham Black Male Summit.

For more information about American Heart Month and tips for community health, please visit the resources below.

“There is no age [minimum].” He emphasized that “heart disease has no name. It can be you. That’s why getting your blood pressure checked is important.”

Eating Healthy Heart-Check Foods

Eating Healthy Add Color

 

Healthy Living Making Habits Stick

Fitness Staying Motivated

Local researcher champions health equity through innovative patient outreach

Local researcher champions health equity through innovative patient outreach

In the heart of Alabama, Druss Hays is transforming clinical research through creativity and compassion. As a Clinical Research Coordinator for the Forge AHEAD Center FREEDOM Study, Hays employs thoughtful strategies to connect with patients, particularly those often excluded from traditional clinical research. His work highlights the intersection of meticulous planning and a deep commitment to health equity, guided by the leadership of study MPI, Tapan Mehta, Ph.D., and Program Director, Aseel El Zein, Ph.D., RDN in UAB’s Department of Family and Community Medicine.

Breaking Down Barriers

For Hays, recruitment begins with genuine connection. He meticulously reviews patient lists from clinics, while also scanning upcoming primary care appointments to identify potential candidates. Yet, his methods are rooted in more than strategy—they reflect a deep respect for patients’ time and circumstances.

“I find the best results start with calling patients after receiving invite letters,” Hays explained. “The people we reach out to directly meet our criteria to the best of our knowledge. When it comes to recruitment, I have to dedicate as much time as possible to finding the people we need.”

 

Druss Hays

Clinical Research Coordinator
Family and Community Medicine
UAB Heersink School of Medicine 

Hays’ commitment is driven by a deep personal passion rather than a sense of obligation.” “Throughout my life, it was always a priority for my career to have a positive influence on something important. I wouldn’t work as hard as I do now if my labor was just to sell a product.”

Overcoming Access Challenges

Hays understands that access is a significant barrier, particularly for patients in underrepresented or rural communities. Transportation issues often pose major challenges. “Sometimes they don’t have a car at all or can only borrow one at certain times. I’ve had patients report their car was stolen or had ongoing issues with reliability,” he said.

To address these hurdles for participants, Hays implemented practical solutions such as leveraging rideshares like Uber Health to provide rides at no-cost to study visits. For participants, unable to travel to Birmingham, he established partnerships with LabCorp, enabling them to complete necessary tests closer to home.

 

“For people who live in areas too far away for an in-person visit, we use LabCorp,” Hays said. “But even then, some have to cross state lines to get to a location. That’s a tough ask, and it often leads to people opting out.”

Building Trust and Retaining Engagement

While recruitment is critical, Hays also excels in retention—a vital component for long-term studies like FREEDOM. His efforts center on personalized communication, ensuring participants feel valued and supported throughout their involvement.

“I enjoy engaging with participants,” he said. “It’s a great experience when I find someone motivated about their participation. It feels good knowing they’ve gained access to a beneficial resource because of my outreach.”

 

“Continuing in my career, I will always focus on research that benefits marginalized people.”

Hays emphasizes the importance of consistent follow-up. “It can be difficult to contact some participants, but I make notes after every call attempt to prioritize reaching them when they’re available. It’s small things like this that improve retention.”

Looking Ahead

As he continues to build bridges between research and marginalized communities, Hays reflects on the larger impact of his work. “For the future, I’d like to see more financial incentives for participants. Even a small increase in compensation over time could encourage continued participation.”

Hays is also preparing to take his passion for health equity to the next level. He is applying to Ph.D. programs to study social psychology, with plans to explore how systemic barriers shape health outcomes. “Continuing in my career, I will always focus on research that benefits marginalized people,” he said.

A Model for Health Equity

Hays’s approach to patient outreach and retention embodies the mission of the Forge AHEAD Center: dismantling barriers in health research in the Deep South. His innovative strategies, coupled with his empathy and determination, ensure that underrepresented voices are centered in clinical studies.

“I want to have a positive influence on something important,” Hays reiterated. With his track record and vision for the future, it’s clear he is doing just that.

Building healthier futures: Raynor’s work to make research accessible

Building healthier futures: Hollie Raynor’s work to make research accessible

“Translation requires a lot of thought regarding settings, implementers, and patients,” said Hollie Raynor, Ph.D., during the Forge AHEAD December seminar. Raynor, a leader in nutrition and behavior research, works to ensure solutions to childhood obesity don’t remain confined to research papers but reach families and communities in need. She focuses on adapting programs to real-world settings, training the people who deliver them, and designing solutions that work for families in their everyday lives.

At the seminar hosted by the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, LA, Raynor discussed the challenges of addressing childhood obesity. “When I started to walk into this space, my interest was thinking about how we can take our family-based intervention—highly intensive at the time—and begin moving it out of specialty care clinics to more primary care settings to enhance access,” she explained. This change, she noted, is essential to helping families—especially those in communities with limited access to care—benefit from programs without the obstacles of specialized healthcare.

Raynor stressed the importance of tailoring interventions to community needs and delivery methods. “As researchers, we need to really describe the site of delivery and the providers involved, so we build a more representative research base to understand how best to impact translation,” she said.

Her work with Federally Qualified Health Centers in Tennessee exemplifies this approach, focusing on scalable models for delivering obesity programs through non-specialist providers, such as primary care physicians and behavioral health consultants.

Breaking Down Barriers

Raynor simplifies evidence-based programs into practical, actionable steps. For example, she has explored ways to reduce contact time in family-based obesity programs while focusing on core behaviors, such as reducing sugary drinks and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption. In a recent study, her team tested a model with just 2.5 hours of contact over six months, alternating in-person and phone sessions to address transportation and accessibility challenges.

These changes come from working closely with community partners and understanding their needs. “It’s so important for us to hear our partners,” Raynor said. “Researchers might say, ‘This is the measure I need,’ but a community partner may say, ‘That’s not feasible.’”

Her work addresses systemic challenges like food insecurity, which affects many families her programs serve. In one project, she modified interventions for food-insecure households by focusing behavior-change goals solely on the child, reducing the burden on parents struggling to make dietary changes for the entire family. “Agility in addressing barriers without sacrificing rigor is key,” she said.


“As researchers, we need to really describe the site of delivery and the providers involved, so we build a more representative research base to understand how best to impact translation.”

 

Turning Knowledge Into Action

Raynor’s work goes beyond program delivery to creating systems that last. “It’s not just about creating new knowledge,” she said. “If your goal is to impact health or translate research, you must avoid creating barriers to implementation.” She highlighted the need to design programs that fit into existing payment models and training systems, allowing healthcare providers to use them without requiring extra resources.

Raynor remains hopeful despite the challenges. “There are many types of research questions,” she said. “What’s important is applying a high degree of rigor to address those questions while considering equity and real-world application.” Her work exemplifies a commitment to practical, impactful research that helps families access care and addresses health disparities.

At the end of the seminar, Raynor described her vision of a future where all families have the tools and support that they need to live healthier lives. “We need to ensure the research base we’re building is representative and actionable,” she said, calling researchers, practitioners, and communities to collaborate on turning proven strategies into lasting solutions.

By focusing on translation, Raynor is working to reduce childhood obesity and ensure all families have the opportunity for healthier lives.

For more on upcoming Forge AHEAD events and resources, visit our website. You can also watch the seminar recording here.

Embracing values-based self-care during the holidays

Embracing values-based self-care during the holidays

As the holiday season picks up, it’s easy to get caught in the hustle and bustle. In the November 13 webinar, “Values-based Self Care for the Holiday Season and Beyond,” Kaylee Crockett, Ph.D., Forge AHEAD scholar and assistant professor of Family and Community Medicine, shared invaluable insights on aligning self-care practices with personal values.

Key Takeaways from Dr. Crockett

Crockett emphasized that self-care goes beyond just relieving daily stresses. “Self-care includes all the things we do to live well, support health and well-being, and manage stress. We must consider self-care not only as an escape from the things that ail us, but as a resource to connect to what matters most to us (i.e., our values). Values include our deepest desires for how we want to treat ourselves, others, and the world around us. Unlike goals, values are things that we achieve, but they give us direction for our actions.”

Here are some of her key tips for incorporating values into your self-care routine:

Kaylee Crockett, Ph.D.

Forge AHEAD Center Scholar, Assistant Professor, Family and Community Medicine, UAB Heersink School of Medicine

  1. Identify Your Values: Reflect on the type of person you want to be. Consider qualities you want to foster and how you wish to be perceived by others. Write down 4-5 words that resonate with you and describe what they mean to you.
  2. Make Values Identification Social: Engage in discussions with family and friends about shared values. Support each other in staying accountable to what matters most.
  3. Prioritize Values in Self-Care Activities:Use your values as a guide to cultivate activities for self-care.For more exercises on identifying your values, check out this resource here.

Moving Forward with Values-Based Self Care

By aligning your self-care practices with your values, you can enhance your well-being during the holiday season and beyond. Remember, self-care is not just about what you do to relax but about connecting with your deepest desires and living in a way that reflects them.

Let’s continue to prioritize our well-being by making values-based self-care a part of our daily lives.

For more about Crockett’s Forge AHEAD research, see this page.

 

Forge AHEAD Center welcomes new staff dedicated to advancing health equity

Forge AHEAD Center welcomes new staff dedicated to advancing health equity

Meet Carol Agomo, Ph.D., MBA, MPH, program director in the Division of General Internal Medicine and Population Science at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and director for community outreach and engagement in Alabama for Forge AHEAD.

With more than 15 years of experience in higher education and community engagement, Carol specializes in public health, health literacy, health equity, and reducing health disparities. She describes herself as a “community-engaged scholar-practitioner” and has developed numerous professional initiatives that strengthen partnerships between communities and academic institutions nationwide. Her research offers deep insights into the experiences of Community Health Workers in the Deep South, enriching her understanding of how local health infrastructure impacts outcomes for under-resourced communities.

Carol’s role at Forge AHEAD enables her to “bridge the gap between research and practice” in Alabama. She said, “I look forward to collaborating with community members and researchers to advance health equity knowledge and action.” Recognizing the urgent need for interventions that are culturally relevant, context-sensitive, and sustainable, Carol is committed to co-creating solutions for conditions like diabetes, obesity, and hypertension, which are prevalent in the Deep South. Her dedication to this work stems from her belief in education’s power to empower both individuals and communities—a foundation she sees as essential for lasting change.

Personally, Carol’s move from Chicago to the Deep South has fostered a deep connection with the region. She is raising her family here and feels driven to contribute to a healthier future for her community. Outside of work, Carol, a self-described “foodie,” enjoys exploring local restaurants and experimenting with new recipes at home. She balances her culinary interests with an active lifestyle, often participating in 5K runs, outdoor walks, and other fitness activities that help her “recharge and find fulfillment” in both her personal and professional commitments.

Visitors to Carol’s office might catch her “theme song of the day” playing softly in the background—a small reflection of her passion for music and its role in her life.

Carol’s enthusiasm, commitment to community, and holistic approach to health equity make her an invaluable addition to the Forge AHEAD team.

 

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Carol Agomo, Ph.D., MBA, MPH

Director for Community Outreach and Engagement in Alabama, Forge AHEAD Center 

 

Jared Ball, MPH, brings a strong background in public health and extensive experience in population health to his role as Program Evaluator for Forge AHEAD.

Jared earned both his BS in public health and MPH in health policy from UAB. His professional journey has included roles in Medicaid population health, where he supported individuals with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension, through transitional care services. Additionally, he served as a patient navigator in Birmingham’s public health community and led education and training efforts for the UAB Center for Palliative and Supportive Care. These experiences, along with his commitment to health equity, brought him to Forge AHEAD, where he is driven to make a positive impact.

In his current role, Jared sees an opportunity to “capture the work that has already been accomplished by Forge AHEAD and its members, while also exploring new directions for growth.” His work in program evaluation will be crucial for assessing Forge AHEAD’s progress, responding to emerging community needs, and strengthening the Center’s impact in addressing health disparities across the Deep South.

Jared’s dedication to public health is deeply personal. Reflecting on his father’s kidney transplant, he shares, “The treatment my dad received during his transplant when I was very young” profoundly influenced his motivation to contribute to health in the region. Growing up aware of the barriers facing many communities in the Deep South, Jared brings a deeply informed, empathetic perspective to his work with Forge AHEAD.

Outside of work, Jared is a dedicated family man with two children—a 4-year-old son and a 2-month-old daughter. He enjoys staying active through running, hiking, and building Lego sets, a hobby he hopes to share with his son. Jared also finds joy in exploring new places, watching sports, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Jared’s combination of professional expertise, personal connection to the region, and commitment to continuous improvement makes him a key asset to the Forge AHEAD team.

 

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Jared Ball, MPH

Program Evaluator, Forge AHEAD Center 

 

Rikki Tanner, Ph.D., is an epidemiologist specializing in cardiometabolic diseases and health disparities, now serving as a scientific writer with the Forge AHEAD Center.

With a strong foundation in public health research and a passion for reducing health disparities, Rikki is committed to advancing health equity through community collaboration and engagement. She is enthusiastic about her role in communicating Forge AHEAD’s research to the broader scientific community.

Growing up in the Deep South with parents who worked as a paramedic and a nurse, Rikki became keenly aware of pressing public health issues, including mental health stigma, racial disparities in healthcare, and limited access to services. Reflecting on her early experiences, she recalls a transformative college course, History of American Medicine, which deepened her understanding of the advancements in medical science and the persistent challenges marginalized communities face in accessing these benefits. “In parts of the Deep South and marginalized communities, we still have a long way to go to equitably distribute those gains,” she said. This awareness drives her commitment to making Forge AHEAD’s research impactful and accessible.

Outside of work, Rikki enjoys exploring historical fiction, practicing fiber crafts like crochet and embroidery, and watching British panel shows. An avid pub trivia enthusiast, she’s always up for testing her knowledge in a friendly challenge.

Rikki’s dedication to health equity, her background in public health, and her passion for storytelling make her an invaluable addition to the Forge AHEAD team. We’re excited to see how her unique perspective and skills will amplify our mission for a healthier, more equitable South.

 

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Rikki Tanner, Ph.D.

Scientific Writer, Forge AHEAD Center 

 

Locher emphasizes inclusive language in scientific research

Locher emphasizes inclusive language in scientific research

“Language is the primary way we convey meaning and culture,” said Julie Locher, Ph.D., professor emerita at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, as she opened the Forge AHEAD seminar on the power of language in scientific communication in November at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.

Locher emphasized the responsibility of researchers to communicate with accuracy and respect, highlighting how word choice in research can shape relationships with communities and influence research outcomes. “When we use language that resonates and respects,” she added, “we open doors to trust and engagement that can transform the impact of our work.”

The seminar “Words Matter: Effective and Appropriate Scientific Communication” focused on practical strategies for using inclusive and respectful terminology, particularly in studies involving diverse communities.

A leading sociologist in health communication, Locher urged the audience to avoid outdated, problematic, or offensive terms, offering guidance on fostering cultural humility throughout the research process. “I approach every interaction with the assumption that no one intends to do harm,” Locher remarked, “but by becoming aware, we can choose words that respect and uplift others.”

Key takeaways included:

  • Person-first language: Locher advocated for using language that acknowledges people as individuals rather than defining them by their health conditions. For instance, instead of “diabetics,” researchers should refer to “people living with diabetes.” This shift reduces stigma and emphasizes the person over the condition.
  • Cultural humility: Locher described cultural humility as a “a lifelong process of self-reflection and self-critique”, adding that it helps mitigate bias. She encouraged researchers to reflect on their beliefs and assumptions, which can inadvertently influence their views of study populations. “Cultural humility isn’t something we check off a list; it’s a lifelong journey of understanding our own biases and assumptions so that we can meet others where they are.”

“Language is the primary way we convey meaning and culture.”

Locher emphasized the vital role of language in scientific research, stressing that using inclusive and respectful terminology fosters trust, strengthens community engagement, and ultimately enhances the impact of research.

  • Considerate demographic terminology: Locher emphasized the importance of using precise terms when describing diverse populations, noting, “The term ‘minority’ often generalizes experiences and can obscure individual identities. We should avoid broad terms like ‘minorities’ and instead be specific, referring directly to the racial or ethnic groups relevant to our studies.” This approach, she explained, “preserves distinctions and respects the diversity within each community.”
  • Inclusive descriptions for disability and socioeconomic status: In discussing language around disabilities and socioeconomic status, Locher stated, “Using phrases like ‘wheelchair-bound’ or ‘the homeless’ can unintentionally define individuals by their challenges rather than their humanity.” She recommended alternatives, such as “individuals who use a wheelchair” and “people without housing,” which emphasize personhood and avoid stigmatization. She reminded the audience, “Our choice of words should uplift and respect, not reduce people to their circumstances or needs.”

 

What is "person-first language"?

“Person-first language” emphasizes referring to individuals as people first, rather than defining them by their health conditions. By using phrases like “people living with diabetes” instead of “diabetics,” researchers reduce stigma and focus on the person rather than the condition.

 

Locher concluded her presentation by encouraging scientists to see language as an evolving tool. “Words that are appropriate today may not be tomorrow,” she said, advocating for continuous learning and adaptation. She also shared resources for scientists wanting to stay updated on recommended language, including guidance from the National Institutes of Health and major health organizations.

The Forge AHEAD Center thanks Dr. Locher for thoughtfully equipping researchers with tools to communicate in ways that respect and accurately represent all individuals. Her seminar reinforces the importance of language in building trust, improving engagement, and advancing health equity across diverse populations.

For more on upcoming Forge AHEAD events and resources, visit our website. You can also watch the seminar recording here.

Schneider Worthington receives recognition for maternal nutrition research

Schneider Worthington receives recognition for maternal nutrition research

Camille Schneider Worthington, Ph.D., a scholar at the Forge AHEAD Center, is leading groundbreaking research on maternal nutrition. Her project, “Use of Home-Delivered Meals to Manage Cardiometabolic Health during Pregnancy among Predominantly Black, Low-Income Women in Alabama,” aims to improve pregnancy outcomes by providing healthy meals to Medicaid-eligible women.

Schneider Worthington emphasizes the critical role of nutrition during pregnancy, noting that poor dietary choices can lead to serious health risks for both mothers and babies. With alarming statistics showing that 70% of pregnant women exceed recommended intakes of added sugars and sodium, her research focuses on innovative solutions to ensure access to nutritious foods.

By delivering ten free healthy meals each week to participating mothers, Schneider Worthington hopes to demonstrate that improved nutrition can lead to better maternal and infant health outcomes. “Healthy meal delivery can support healthier pregnancies, which supports healthier babies and ultimately healthier communities,” she states.

Read the full story here. 

Camille Schneider- Worthington, Ph.D.

Assistant professor, Division of General Internal Medicine and Population Science, UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine

Learn more about Worthington. 

Our Scholars’ stories: Caldwell bridges the gap of genetics and nutrition to enhance health outcomes among African American communities in Baton Rouge

Our Scholars’ stories: Caldwell bridges the gap of genetics and nutrition to enhance health outcomes among African American communities in Baton Rouge

Disparities in health outcomes for African American adults involve both biological and social health determinants. Jennifer Caldwell, Ph.D., a researcher at Pennington Biomedical Research Center, is exploring the combined influence of a biological determinant (a person’s genes), and a social health determinant (food insecurity) to understand the impact on African American adults’ health outcomes in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Genetics are known to play a role in 9 of 10 leading causes of death in the U.S. including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. North Baton Rouge is a predominantly made up of African American households where 20-30% of households are food insecure compared to only 8-10% of households in South Baton Rouge.

Inspired by the North Baton Rouge community, Caldwell is researching how food insecurity affects the body’s ability to heal. This community, which lacks grocery stores and fresh produce and relies solely on convenience stores, is classified as a “food desert.”

Additionally, she aims to start a conversation with African American communities in this area about how genes influence their health.

“I wanted an intervention that would close that knowledge gap,” she says. “We titled the project Linking GAINS; it aims to combine the analyses of genetics and nutrition to enhance health behaviors among participants undergoing a behavioral intervention.”

 Linking GAINS focuses on community engagement to share information on how genetics and health behaviors impact a person’s health. Caldwell’s goal is for residents in the African American communities in North Baton Rouge to understand their genetic makeup and use that knowledge to make informed health decisions. By bridging the gap between genetics and nutrition, Caldwell hopes to foster healthier behaviors and improve overall health outcomes in these underserved areas.

Jennifer Caldwell, PhD, MPH

Assistant Professor, Public Health Genomics and Health Equity Laboratory, Pennington Biomedical Research Center

Learn more about Caldwell.

“I wanted an intervention that would close that knowledge gap,” she says. “We titled the project Linking GAINS; it aims to combine the analyses of genetics and nutrition to enhance health behaviors among participants undergoing a behavioral intervention.”

 A history of inequity in Louisiana

Longstanding geographical segregation issues contribute to health disparities in Louisiana. “This initiative is crucial due to the historical segregation within Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where disparities exist between the south and north sides of the city,” Caldwell explains.

“In the past, African American communities were primarily located near industrial plants or railroad tracks on the north side. Currently, the southern side is characterized by institutions like Louisiana State University (LSU), situated close to the medical corridor and areas with better access to fresh produce and economic development.”

Did you know?

A food desert is a community with limited resources and fresh produce

 As a result, there remains a significant social and economic gap in the city that is linked to racial issues from Louisiana’s historical background and antebellum past, Caldwell says.

The disparity lies in the city’s economic systems,social systems and structures, and transportation is a significant contributing factor to these discrepancies.

 “One critical aspect of the disparity between residents living on the north and south sides of Baton Rouge, particularly in the area near Louisiana State University, is the issue of food deserts and its impact on health equity, compounded by transportation challenges.”

As a result, there remains a significant social and economic gap in the city that is linked to racial issues from Louisiana’s historical background and antebellum past, Caldwell says.

“One critical aspect of the disparity between residents living on the north and south sides of Baton Rouge, particularly in the area near Louisiana State University, is the issue of food deserts and its impact on health equity, compounded by transportation challenges.”

As a result, there remains a significant social and economic gap in the city that is linked to racial issues from Louisiana’s historical background and antebellum past, Caldwell says.

The disparity lies in the city’s economic systems,social systems and structures, and transportation is a significant contributing factor to these discrepancies.

“One critical aspect of the disparity between residents living on the north and south sides of Baton Rouge, particularly in the area near Louisiana State University, is the issue of food deserts and its impact on health equity, compounded by transportation challenges.”

Caldwell’s ‘why’

Caldwell says she is very motivated to tailor her program to the community. “As a young professor, I am very interested in genetics, and it has been one of my top priorities. Engagement and health literacy is another one of my top priorities.”

“I realized if I am going to build this lab, I have to build trust with the community and empower them to build their health literacy. We wanted to build a project that could meet the need of underdeveloped areas in Baton Rouge. North has no actual grocery stores or medical corridors.”

Engaging African American community members

To build trust and meet the community’s needs, Caldwell and her team are focused on maximizing recruitment efforts and engaging a diverse range of often marginalized participants.

“Our collaboration includes the Southern University Agriculture and Extension Center alongside various community outreach partners, organizations, and local churches. By situating the project in North Baton Rouge, we aim to eliminate transportation barriers and ensure accessibility for the community members.”

Keeping it local shows Caldwell’s determination to build a program in partnership with the community, making it easy and welcoming for people to join. “We have made sure to incorporate things that are culturally centered, like cooking classes,” she says, “Louisiana has such a rich culture and food culture.”

 

The study: Enhance health behaviors through community

Throughout the Linking GAINS study, participants will learn the impact that genetic factors that contribute to developing chronic diseases.

They will be able to understand and effectively communicate their genetic results to their primary care providers. Additionally, participants will receive guidance on adopting healthier lifestyles and modifying behaviors to improve overall well-being.

“We are establishing clinic groups within the community,” Caldwell says, “And meetings are to be held at a local church.” It is important to Caldwell that participants feel safe and that trust is built in a trustworthy space during the study.

Did you know?

North Baton Rouge faces more health challenges than the south due to historical segregation.

Participant-centered approach

Linking GAINS intervention focuses on the participants, giving them choices and flexibility to keep them engaged. “Participants will benefit from a comprehensive 14-week behavioral intervention program, coupled with the groundbreaking inclusion of genetic testing,” Caldwell explains.

“This unique initiative offers participants the opportunity to receive their genetic results and engage in one-on-one sessions with a genetic counselor for a detailed review of these findings.”

Early on, Caldwell says she spoke with a therapist about using interventions in the project. The therapist gave great advice on group counseling sessions, especially about myths and stress management. Based on the therapist’s advice, Caldwell says they have included group counseling sessions that will cover these topics.

Group sessions will help participants feel engaged with their peers and keep them from feeling alone or singled out.
The groups will discuss health disparities, nutrition, and healthy cooking, as well as what foods to buy and how to cook fresh produce. Sessions on heart health and similar topics will also be held. The interventions focus on lifestyle and behavior changes and are tailored to the community’s needs.

Caldwell explains that community engagement is a big challenge in clinical research with African American communities. By making this project community-based and a group effort, they hope to get people involved and keep them engaged.
Interventions include health behavior programs and weekly sessions, not just on weekends. There will also be weekly physical activity programs.

Making it easy to participate

Along with situating the study in the heart of the community, Caldwell wants to ensure participants have time to join. “The project is designed to take place on weekdays after 5:30 p.m., providing flexibility for participants so they do not have to worry about leaving work early.”

To that end, Caldwell wants to ensure participants feel valued for their time. “I understand that committing to research is challenging. For this reason, we compensate participants for their time, whether they need to leave work or make other adjustments. One of the key aspects of this project is its timing. We aim to accommodate participants’ schedules to ensure they do not have to take time off work to engage in research.”

Participation will involve individuals from two different communities. “This demographic is crucial for us to understand the impact of our interventions on a diverse group. We have collaborated with non-profits that possess valuable insights about the communities we are studying. Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping the project.”

Caldwell’s project, Linking GAINS, addresses crucial health disparities at the intersection of genetics and nutrition in North Baton Rouge. By focusing on empowering African American communities to learn about the combined impact of how genetics and food insecurity influences health outcomes, this intervention aims to empower community members to make informed health decisions and improve long-term health outcomes. By focusing on community engagement and culturally relevant intervention, Caldwell’s work exemplifies a holistic approach to advancing health equity and can serve as a model for similar efforts nationwide.

Our scholars’ stories: Andrabi seeks to fill a gap in care for stroke survivors in Alabama’s Black Belt

Our scholars’ stories: Andrabi seeks to fill a gap in care for stroke survivors in Alabama’s Black Belt

African American communities have a higher prevalence of both hypertension and stroke than any other ethnicity. Alabama is among one of 11 states makes up part of the region known as the Stroke Belt where death from stroke is from 2 to 4 times greater than other states.

“Stroke is especially prominent among African American adults living in the Black Belt of rural Alabama,” says Mudasir Andrabi, Ph.D., Forge AHEAD Center scholar.

Andrabi, who is researching the needs and preferences of individuals living in rural Alabama on their post-stroke life management and blood pressure management.

A gap in post-stroke care

Data shows that seventy percent of stroke survivors are discharged from health care facilities, out of which, 40% are released without any community-based services.

“These rates worsen in rural areas due to the socio-demographics of persons living in these areas, including unavailability of services, unaffordable care, lack of transportation, and low socioeconomic status,” says Andrabi, who is an assistant professor at the University of Alabama’s Capstone College of Nursing.

 “Lack of health services makes post-stroke self-management for these individuals more challenging, leading to hypertension and recurrence of stroke.”

Mudasir Andrabi, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor, Capstone College of Nursing, University of Alabama

Learn more about Andrabi. 

“Stroke is especially prominent among African American adults living in the Black Belt of rural Alabama.”

 Andrabi’s research study aims to address the critical gaps in managing stroke-related challenges among African American individuals aged 50 and above who have a documented diagnosis of chronic stroke and high blood pressure condition with mild to moderate disability. Approximately 15% to 20% of individuals will experience a stroke recurrence. According to a recent study, risk of stroke recurrence at 3 years is higher for Black individuals (17.4%) compared with non-Black individuals (14.7%) in the U.S.

With the right tools, self-management interventions can prevent 80% of stroke recurrences.

Andrabi’s why

During her previous work with African American individuals living in rural counties of Alabama, Andrabi says the community key leaders and participants “anecdotally mentioned a lack of services for individuals who have stroke and high blood pressure.”

Did you know?

African American communities have a higher prevalence of both hypertension and stroke than any other ethnicity.

They were reported to have poor management for high blood pressure and engaged in limited preventive behaviors like physical activity and adherence to the treatment.

“Moreover, there is minimal to no rehabilitation services available to these individuals’ post-stroke due to unaffordable co-pays and lack of insurance.”

Due to scarce resources, these individuals have poorer outcomes, including poor body balance, avoidance of physical activity due to fear of falling, and lack of knowledge and skills for alternate other suitable physical activities. Andrabi shared that they typically become dependent on family for their activities of daily living. They also seem to have poor control over their blood pressure in general. 

 “Since high blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke, these individuals often end up having a recurrence of stroke. Therefore, it was found to be a priority to help them manage their high blood pressure and post-stroke life as much as possible.”

Andrabi says she wants to empower individuals post-stroke to engage in health behaviors to reduce likelihood of stroke recurrence including reducing sedentary activities, appropriate exercise and medication adherence.

Interventions that prevent stroke recurrence and save lives

Interventions help stroke patients manage and improve their high blood pressure symptoms, physical and emotional stress, taking medication consistently, activities of daily living, and quality of life.

However, intervention strategies are not widely tested among older African American stroke survivors for the management of their post-stroke life and their high blood pressure management.

“We aim to develop a need-based intervention that will be tailored to the social determinants of health and culture of the African American aging populations of rural Alabama,” explains Andrabi.

The group plans to utilize basic technology and other resources available in Alabama’s rural counties. The intervention will be minimally expensive and can be delivered using a minimum health workforce.

Creating a program unique to the community

“Our study involves the community’s key members throughout the entire study including the needs assessment, intervention development, and delivery of intervention.”

To Andrabi’s knowledge, this study is a unique and innovative culturally tailored intervention that would be accessible and affordable for these underserved populations in Alabama at high risk for stroke recurrence.

Developing a cost-effective and accessible self-management program will aim to overcome barriers to health care accessibility and increase equity in the distribution of health care services within these geographically disadvantaged areas.

The overall study focuses on improving stroke survivors to manage their high blood pressure and challenges related to their post-stroke life to improve their health outcomes and quality of life.

Andrabi’s post-stroke self-management program

The post-stroke self-management program includes teaching important information via teleconferences, creating a unique exercise plan based on the severity of the stroke survivor’s disability, sending reminders through texts or calls depending on participant preference, and problem solve to address barriers that may prevent them from engaging in preventive health behaviors.

 

Andrabi says the main research question is to assess the needs of stroke survivors and develop the best intervention to address those needs. Components will be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of participants, such as:

  • Delivery of education to build learning related to management of high blood pressure and post-stroke life
  • Accessibility of the program in participants’ homes to overcome their lack of transportation and long distance from the health care facilities
  • Simplicity and the social relevance of the educational content
  • Reminders for educational sessions for their ease of understanding, especially among elderly individuals

 

Did you know?

Alabama is part of the Stroke Belt, where death is 2-4 times higher than other states.

  • Use of existing resources in counties, such as existing social groups, existing teleconference system, local produce, community halls, or church halls for indoor physical activity during unfavorable weather

All these components focus on overcoming the barriers of lack of insurance and unaffordability of care.

Testing a post-stroke self-management program

Ultimately, the goal of this project is to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of a newly developed intervention for African American stroke survivors in rural Alabama.
In addition, the study involves the community members in every phase, building their capacity to run the program independently and enabling them to control their health.