A recent study published in JACC and presented at the 73rd Annual Scientific Meeting of the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand highlights the effectiveness of community-based health screenings in detecting cardiovascular risk factors. These innovative pop-up screening events, held in various public locations, have successfully identified numerous individuals with unmanaged risks for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), a leading cause of global mortality. Such proactive health checks are crucial because, despite the preventability of many ASCVD cases, a significant portion of the population does not undergo regular screenings or receive necessary preventative care.

The research involved over 76,000 participants over seven weeks, with screenings conducted at 311 community pharmacies and a major international cricket match. The study revealed that a substantial majority (68.9%) of participants had at least one uncontrolled risk factor, such as elevated blood pressure, being overweight or obese, or active smoking. Notably, more than one-third of participants with recorded blood pressure readings fell into the hypertensive category. The study also observed variations in risk factor prevalence based on screening location and time, with higher rates of elevated blood pressure and BMI found among those screened at the cricket match compared to pharmacies. Furthermore, a significant number of individuals with elevated blood pressure had not been checked recently or were not receiving antihypertensive treatment, especially in rural pharmacy settings where older participants with higher rates of diabetes were also noted.

The findings advocate for the strategic integration of accessible health screenings into community programs and events, particularly targeting populations at higher risk who may face barriers to traditional healthcare. By bringing these vital health services directly to people in their everyday environments, it is possible to enhance early detection of cardiovascular risks and promote timely interventions. This approach not only aids in reducing the overall burden of heart disease but also addresses health disparities, fostering a healthier society by ensuring that preventative care is within reach for everyone.