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The Christ Hospital Health Network has received Gold+ level recognition from the American Heart Association and American Medical Association for its work in improving blood pressure control rates. The recognition is part of the Target: BP initiative, which honors healthcare organizations that show strong evidence-based practices in measuring and treating blood pressure, with high blood pressure controlled in at least 70% of adult patients affected.
“Addressing blood pressure management is key for better cardiovascular health – and critical today, when heart disease and stroke continue to be leading causes of death for adults in the U.S.,” said John Szawaluk, MD, cardiologist and Medical Director of the Resistant Hypertension Clinic at The Christ Hospital Health Network. “High blood pressure is a leading risk factor of heart disease and stroke that can often be prevented or managed if diagnosed and treated properly.”
Hypertension remains a major concern across the United States, affecting about 122.4 million adults—almost half the adult population. Despite this prevalence, only one in four adults have their condition under control. Heart disease ranks as the top cause of death nationally, while stroke holds fifth place and is also a significant cause of disability.
“By committing to helping more people in Greater Cincinnati control their blood pressure and reduce their risks for future heart disease and stroke, The Christ Hospital Health Network is taking a key step to helping more people live longer, healthier lives,” said Wanpen Vongpatanasin, MD, volunteer member of the Target: BP Advisory Group and liaison to the American Heart Association Hypertension Council. “The Christ Hospital’s participation in the Target: BP initiative shows its dedication to turning clinical guidelines into lifelines for patients and their families.”
Target: BP was created by both associations as a response to widespread uncontrolled hypertension across the country. The program provides healthcare organizations with free resources aimed at improving quality through evidence-based strategies.
The Christ Hospital Health Network operates an acute care hospital in Mt. Auburn as well as other locations throughout Greater Cincinnati. With over 1,300 physicians and 7,200 team members serving patients for more than 135 years, it has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as Cincinnati’s top hospital and included on Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals list for 2025.
For further information about Target: BP visit https://targetbp.org/.
