Human Research Coordination

Storytelling studies have been effective approach for promoting healthy behaviors and lifestyle change, and have contributed to reductions in blood pressure among African Americans. The High Blood Pressure Stories (HBPStories) study was developed to share the stories and experiences of six individuals living with high blood pressure with others managing high blood pressure. In addition to sharing the stories, our study website provides educational content on topics important for people managing high blood pressure, such as medications, physical activity, diet, and managing multiple health conditions. Participants in the study will be enrolled in one of three groups: 1) usual care (normal care) 2) Storytelling (online storytelling + educational information) accessed using a study website 3) Storytelling Plus (group storytelling sessions + peer-led educational sessions and goal setting). The Storytelling and Storytelling Plus groups will both be asked to record their person experiences and reflections on managing high blood pressure once a week for six weeks. All participants will have in-person visits at baseline, 6-weeks, 3-months, and 6-months, to have their blood pressure taken and to discuss medication adherence, diet, physical activity, stress and sleep behaviors. The long-term goal of this project is to develop a storytelling intervention that can be delivered in community settings across Delaware and Pennsylvania.

The study inclusion criteria are as follows: 1) Identify as Black or African American; 2) prescribed antihypertensive medication; 3) age ≥ 18 years, and 4) have elevated blood pressure or high blood pressure defined a SBP 120-129 and DBP less than 80 The exclusion criteria are: 1) cognitive limitations that limit the ability to provide informed consent; 2) pregnancy; 3) unable to speak or read English and 4) planning to relocate during the study period.

To learn more about the HBPStories study, please contact the University of Delaware Center for Human Research Coordination at 302-831-0150 or chrc@udel.edu.