A team of community health workers from Santa Rosa Community Health is taking action to address the growing concern of hypertension, or high blood pressure, among the Fijian community in the North Bay.
Local physicians have reported a rise in cases and are urging preventive measures.
Community health worker supervisor, Veronica Varragan, and her team recently introduced Fiji Bula Health, an initiative dedicated to raising awareness and promoting healthier lifestyles.
“We want to understand the way of life,” said Ms Varragan.
“That understanding will guide the next steps in our awareness campaign.”
DFHC Human Resources manager, Jale Kunawalu, considers the cause deeply personal.
The group is working to better understand Fijian cultural traditions in order to design effective pathways for improved health.
“As Fijians, we love our food, but we do not always pay attention to what we are eating,”
Mr Kunawalu said knowing proper portions and food could help avoid risks.
Although there is no specific data on hypertension within the Fijian community in the North Bay, a recent study revealed that 47 per cent of Sonoma County residents aged 60 and above have been diagnosed with the condition.
“We need to spread the word and start changing our habits,” said Mr Kunawalu.
Anyone who may be at risk or currently living with hypertension is encouraged to reach out to Ms Varragan for guidance at veronicab@srhealth.org.
