INDIANAPOLIS – One Indy resident recently discovered his heart health was at risk, while in an unlikely spot – the barbershop.
A community resource was able to help reduce his concerns for future cardiovascular problems.
Every Thursday at 10:30 a.m., Derrick Mack visits the barber for his weekly trim.
On one recent occasion, the owner encouraged him to get a check-up at the IU Health table as he has with a majority of his customers.
The program began at “All in the Wrists” last year.
“Both of my parents suffer from hypertension, so it was a personal thing for me and I was ready, I was on board,” said Marvin Taylor, owner of the shop.
The results were shocking, as Mack had no idea that he was walking around at the risk of the “silent killer”.
“It was 180 over 110, so I was in a heart attack and stroke levels,” said Mack.
The team from IU Health set him up with a doctor’s appointment the next day.
“Now I’m taking some medications for it, also changed my eating habits and workout – I’m just doing things differently,” he said.
Now Derrick is just one customer who’s had a health screening at the barbershop, but so far, IU Health has already helped over 200 patrons.
“The vision came about with the understanding that cardiovascular disease, especially and specifically among African American men in the United States is at an alarming rate,” said Tyrone Humphrey, Director of Community Outreach and Engagement for IU Health.
According to the American Heart Association, 55% of black adults have high blood pressure.
“Especially in our community, we have to be aware because we don’t usually go to the doctor and get things checked out unless it’s a dire need, so we have to be aware of that,” added Mack.
The I-Heart Collaborative hopes to reduce this startling number by focusing on medically underserved areas and giving access to those who might not have it otherwise.
“We’re here to screen anyone and everyone. You don’t necessarily have to be a patient of IU Health,” said Humphrey. “We screen everyone that comes through the door regardless of their backgrounds, regardless of their status, regardless of the situation.”
Now All in the Wrists offers free screenings every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Another barbershop involved, Master’s Touch has them every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for people interested.
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