LEONARDTOWN, MD (January 7, 2026) – The St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is launching the Healthy Hearts Ambassador Blood Pressure Self-Management Program, a free initiative designed to help adults better manage high blood pressure and reduce their risk of heart disease and stroke. The program is open to St. Mary’s County residents ages 18 and older who have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or who are currently taking blood pressure medication.

Hypertension remains a significant public health concern in St. Mary’s County, affecting over 30 percent of adults. Uncontrolled high blood pressure increases the risk of serious health conditions, including heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. With the right tools, education, and support, individuals can take meaningful steps at any age to keep their blood pressure in a healthy range.

The program’s inaugural cohort will begin on January 26, 2026, and will run for four months. Participants will receive individualized support through twice-monthly one-on-one check-ins with a trained Healthy Hearts Ambassador. These sessions will focus on home blood pressure monitoring, progress review, goal-setting, and practical strategies to support healthy lifestyle changes. In addition, participants will attend monthly group nutrition sessions covering heart-healthy eating topics such as the DASH diet, sodium reduction, and smart grocery shopping.

Community members interested in participating can learn more and register for the upcoming cohort by visiting smchd.org/healthyhearts.

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