Reduction in Health Disparities/Increased Healthy Equity
Goal: Improve Health Equity and Reduce Chronic Disease in Target Populations
in Lake County
By June 30, 2014, determine rates of adults with hypertension (HTN) in five (5) targeted communities
(North Chicago, Waukegan, Zion, Round Lake Area and Highwood) using LCHD/CHC patient
population data.
Progress: 2014 Goal Met
High blood pressure (hypertension) can quietly damage a person’s body for years before symptoms
develop. Left uncontrolled, hypertension can lead to disabilities, poor quality of life or even heart
attacks. With treatment and lifestyle changes, people can control their high blood pressure to reduce
the risk of life-threatening complications.
Community
Highland Park
North Chicago
Round Lake
Waukegan
Zion
Total
Percentage of Patients
with Hypertension
26%
39%
22%
41%
38%
35%
By June 30, 2014, establish baselines for tobacco use, obesity and hypertension for the severely
mentally ill population served by LCHD/CHC.
Progress: 2014 Goal Met
People who live with mental illness are often at higher risk
for heart illness and much of that risk is preventable. People
who live with mental illness are more likely to have classic
heart risk factors such as cigarette smoking, obesity,
diabetes, elevated cholesterol and hypertension (high blood
pressure)—all of which can be exacerbated by some
antipsychotic medications. These risk factors can be
modified. Mental health patients who are addressing them
can live longer and enjoy a higher quality of life.
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