Heart disease refers to several types of heart conditions. The most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease, which affects blood flow to the heart and can lead to heart attack or stroke. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Hispanic populations have disproportionately high rates of risk factors for heart disease, such as:

Community members face many barriers to healthy meals and active lifestyles, which can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. Some barriers include:

The Healthy Hearts program is an education intervention program that addresses childhood obesity. The program was developed and written by NIHHC’s Executive Director, Liliana Quintero, to teach students in 4th through 6th grades about the heart and the importance of healthy nutrition and exercise. Through lectures and hands-on activities, this program aims to prevent childhood obesity by empowering students with the knowledge needed to make healthier decisions and to become role models for their own families as stewards of good health. Students learn how the heart works; the five healthy food groups and appropriate portion sizes; how the intake of sugar, sodium, and fat impacts our health; how to read food labels; and how exercise can be fun.

The Por Tu Familia program aims to address risk factors associated with heart disease by promoting the self-management of healthy habits. It is structured through the DEEP (Diabetes Empowerment Education Program) curriculum and offers health education on high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity. Por Tu Familia takes a holistic approach in promoting healthy lifestyles in families through emphasis on healthy nutrition and exercise. A health care professional leads the lectures on health conditions, and professional instructors lead fitness and nutrition instruction through group activities, such as Zumba or a cooking demonstration. Parents of students participating in Healthy Hearts are encouraged to attend the Por Tu Familia program.