Engaging an African American Church-based Community in Developing a Technology-focused Virtual Reality Hypertension Program.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: African Americans are disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease and hypertension. To address this, we partnered with local church leaders in developing a virtual reality (VR) hypertension reduction program. OBJECTIVES: A community-based participatory research approach was adopted to develop a hypertension education program using VR, incorporating feedback from the African American church congregation members. METHODS: Using a qualitative approach, a modified Delphi exercise, and member checking, the research team collaborated with congregation members who provided feedback and assisted in the development of the intervention. LESSONS LEARNED Incorporating feedback from church members significantly impacted the educational platform. Encouraged by the reverend, church members were engaged and participated in the 12-week program designed to reduce blood pressure. Novel approaches like VR may need more time to pilot to achieve desired results, particularly with vulnerable populations. CONCLUSIONS: This participatory research platform highlights the importance of incorporating external stakeholders throughout the research process in order to develop a meaningful health intervention using new technology that is tailored to the church members.