Abstract
Introduction: Islamophobia affects the mental health of the large San Joaquin (SJ) Muslim population leading to psychological distress and mental health concerns which can further lead to High Blood Pressure (HBP) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). SJ has a growing rate of Muslim immigrants who may be at risk for psychological distress and CVD. Objectives: Trainees conducted Kessler psychological distress tests, HBP and CVD screenings at mosques to reduce the risk of CVD and spread awareness about mental health, CVD and its implications in the Muslim population due to environmental racism in the most underserved county for health care, SJ. Methods: I trained medically ambitious low-income minority female high school students to conduct weekly Kessler psychological distress tests, blood pressure screenings and serve as a health technology coach. Each student monitored 2 hypertensive and psychological distressed patients of 40 hypertensive, psychological distressed, at risk for CVD and low-income Muslim residents. Kessler psychological distress tests and CVD screenings were conducted at all SJ mosques to spread awareness about mental health and heart health and track psychological distress and HBP in the Muslim community. Findings: -About 58% (304 of 527) of SJ Muslim population are at risk for CVD -About 42% (221 of 527) of SJ Muslim population are Stage 1 hypertensive -About 19% (98 of 527) of SJ Muslim population are Stage 2 hypertensive -About 61% (319 of 527) of SJ Muslim population are hypertensive and psycologically distressed Direct Outcomes: -Youth learned the value of empathy, multiculturalism and service to disadvantaged communities through the program and volunteering -Female empowerment and program students are determined to pursue medicine and address community concerns -Improved patient provider trust -Development of self advocacy for health in the Muslim communityIncreased awareness on CVD, HBP, and mental health among the Muslim communityIncreased participation of youth and females in an otherwise adult and male dominant environments (i.e. mosques) -Awareness, education among Muslim community for better heart and mental health -Better understanding in how to manage and seek referral for mental health concerns
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