Partners for a Healthier Community


	CV Risk Assessment, Durfee High School Action Plan Participant: Southcoast Hospitals Group and Fall River Public Schools
	Cardiovascular risk assessments are conducted among high school Sophomores in the health classes each semester at B.M.C. Durfee High School by a nurse and a dietitian from Southcoast Hospitals as part of their Community Benefits program. Students receive a personalized report with their results and recommendations for maintaining or improving their cardiovascular fitness for life. For more photos and information about the project, click here.

Priority Area:	Health Education
Priority Sub-Area:	3, B) Physical fitness education
Goal:	To reduce the incidence of obesity and increase cardiovascular fitness among Fall River youth and young adults.
Method(s):	Joint risk factor screening program (cholesterol, blood Sugar, BP, height, weight, stress, etc.) in all 10th grade health classes with Charlton Hospital.
Timeline:	Timeline: 2 – 3 year project; 2003-2006
Indicators:	Follow-up screenings show improved scores for risk factors for heart disease and diabetes.
Progress:	During the 2003-2004 school year in all sophomore health classes at Durfee High School students completed an extensive health risk survey and were screened by Charlton Hospital for cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure levels. Each student screened was then presented with a personal computerized wellness profile and provided education on how best to lower their risk for heart disease. These same students were offered re-screening during the 2004-2005 year to see how they have done over the past year. This year’s sophomores will again be screened in health classes.
How citizens can get involved:	Make awareness and reduction of risk factors for heart disease and diabetes a family priority. See that all adult family members know their numbers.
Contact Information:	Sue Sterrett, Health Coordinator at 508-675-8430 or e-mail at Ssterrett@fallriver.k12.ma.us.