An interactive technology enhanced coaching intervention for Black women with hypertension: Randomized controlled trial study protocol

In the United States, hypertension (HTN) is the leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and a more significant health problem for Blacks compared with other racial/ethnic groups. The prevalence of HTN in Black women is among the highest in the world, underscoring the need for effective prevention and management approaches for blood pressure (BP) control. We developed a two-arm randomized controlled trial repeated measures design study for improving HTN self-management among Black women. The study tests whether the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) combined with interactive technology-enhanced coaching, can improve BP control and adherence to treatment (e.g., medication-taking, physical activity, calorie intake, and weight management) compared with the CDSMP alone. Repeated measurements were conducted at 3, 6, and 9 months. A sample of 90 community-dwelling Black women with uncontrolled Stage 1 HTN (BP ≥ 130/80) were enrolled, completed CDSMP training, and randomized. This study will contribute to our understanding of novel methods to empower Black women to increase their active involvement in self-care management of HTN.