Rationale and design of Faith-based Approaches in the Treatment of Hypertension (FAITH), a lifestyle intervention targeting blood pressure control among black church members

Background: Uncontrolled hypertension (HTN) is a significant public health problem among blacks in the United States. Despite the proven efficacy of therapeutic lifestyle change (TLC) on blood pressure (BP) reduction in clinical trials, few studies have examined their effectiveness in church-based settings-an influential institution for health promotion in black communities.

Methods: Using a cluster-randomized, 2-arm trial design, this study evaluates the effectiveness of a faith-based TLC intervention vs health education (HE) control on BP reduction among hypertensive black adults. The intervention is delivered by trained lay health advisors through group TLC sessions plus motivational interviewing in 32 black churches. Participants in the intervention group receive 11 weekly TLC sessions targeting weight loss, increasing physical activity, fruit, vegetable and low-fat dairy intake, and decreasing fat and sodium intake, plus 3 monthly individual motivational interviewing sessions. Participants in the control group attend 11 weekly classes on HTN and other health topics delivered by health care experts. The primary outcome is change in BP from baseline to 6 months. Secondary outcomes include level of physical activity, percent change in weight, and fruit and vegetable consumption at 6 months, and BP control at 9 months.

Conclusion: If successful, this trial will provide an alternative and culturally appropriate model for HTN control through evidence-based lifestyle modification delivered in churches by lay health advisors.