HHS, ABC Radio To Launch Public Health Education Campaign for African Americans
HHS has formed a partnership with ABC Radio Networks to educate African Americans about local care providers, public health programs and how to use "lifestyle tips" to improve their health. Under the campaign, called "Closing the Health Gap," 240 ABC Radio affiliates, which reach 93% of the black population, will air messages on the "severity of the health crisis" facing African Americans. The radio spots will range from 10 seconds to one minute and will feature HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson and Surgeon General David Satcher. Community groups are also involved in the campaign, and a Web site and phone number (1-800-444-6472) have been set up for listeners to obtain additional information. Another part of the effort involves a one-day event next spring that will encourage African Americans to visit a care provider or make an appointment to visit one in the near future. Thompson said, "African Americans suffer disproportionately from diabetes, heart disease and other medical problems. 'Closing the Health Gap' ... [will] spread the word about good health and prevention directly to millions of African-American listeners. ABC Radio will turn HHS' scientific knowledge about promoting better health into effective radio programming" (HHS release, 11/19).
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