The American Heart Association has donated a blood pressure monitoring station to the Wiley Kennedy Family Life Center

Support from Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Columbia supports community health

The American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, with support from Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Columbia, has donated a self-monitoring blood pressure station to the Wiley Kennedy Family Life Center in Columbia. The new station provides free, easy-to-use technology that allows residents to check their blood pressure on-site and share results with a healthcare provider. This tool empowers individuals to take control of their heart health in a trusted neighborhood setting.

Nearly half of adults in South Carolina live with high blood pressure, and Black communities face higher risk compared to other groups. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke and in Richland County, heart disease and stroke remain among the leading causes of death for residents.

“This initiative underscores our commitment to a comprehensive approach to stroke care in Columbia, SC, addressing both recovery and prevention,” said Nicole Woods, CEO of Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Columbia.

The donation aligns with the newly released 2025 High Blood Pressure Clinical Practice Guideline, developed by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology. The updated guidance stresses early detection, lifestyle changes, and personalized care, especially in communities with limited access to health resources.

Key highlights of the guideline include:

• Lifestyle changes as the foundation for treatment, such as reducing sodium, increasing physical activity, managing stress, and following a heart-healthy diet.
• Use of the PREVENT™ risk calculator, which factors in social determinants of health such as ZIP code for adults ages 30-79 without known cardiovascular disease, to guide care.
• Focus on early treatment to reduce the risk of dementia and cognitive decline.
• Expanded emphasis on blood pressure management during pregnancy, supporting maternal health.

The self-monitoring station is available during regular hours at the Wiley Kennedy Family Life Center. In addition, the Association and local partners will offer educational materials to support healthy lifestyles.

“In the 29203 community, we see higher rates of high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes than many other parts of our county – coupled with facing many too many barriers to care, from lack of resources to the cost of regular doctor visits. That’s why this donation from the American Heart Association is so important, placing a life-saving tool right here in the community in the hands of the people who need it most. This is one step toward helping ensure residents have access to the care and resources they deserve, and closing the health gap in 29203,” said Tyra Little, councilwoman, Richland County District 3.

The American Heart Association encourages people to know their numbers. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, but it is a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke. The Association is committed to meeting people where they are, providing access to tools and education that help prevent chronic illness before it starts.

“Our goal is to meet people where they are—and today, we are making that commitment loud and clear. As a survivor of cardiovascular disease, I understand firsthand how vital it is to stay on top of your health. Now, residents in this community have access to a critical resource that empowers them to monitor their blood pressure and take charge of their well-being,” said Maranda Williams, marketing and communications director, the American Heart Association.

For more information about blood pressure management or upcoming community health events, visit www.heart.org/bloodpressure.

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.