HEART HEALTH AND HIV AWARENESS UNITED
Since our founding in 2012, The Respect Yourself Project has been dedicated to promoting heart health and HIV awareness through various innovative and impactful initiatives. Our work in the community focuses on breaking stigmas, providing education, and fostering holistic well-being. Here are some of our key programs
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Darren Smith-Banton
Tangie Shepherd
Tangie Shepherd
President & Founder
Tangie Shepherd
Tangie Shepherd
Tangie Shepherd
Treasurer
Stephan Matthews
Kimberly Simmons
Kimberly Simmons
Secretary
Kimberly Simmons
Kimberly Simmons
Kimberly Simmons
Community Outreach Director
The connection between heart disease and HIV
People living with HIV are at a higher risk of developing heart disease compared to those without HIV. Here are some key points:
- Inflammation: HIV can cause chronic inflammation, even when the virus is well-controlled with antiretroviral therapy (ART). This inflammation can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease1.
- Immune System Activation: HIV can cause ongoing immune system activation, which contributes to inflammation and plaque buildup in the arteries.
- Traditional Risk Factors: People with HIV often have higher rates of traditional heart disease risk factors, such as smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.
- Medications: Some antiretroviral medications may also contribute to an increased risk of heart disease.
- Higher Incidence: Studies have shown that people with HIV have a 1.5 to 2 times higher risk of heart attack or stroke compared to those without HIV.
It's important for people living with HIV to manage their heart health by adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking. Regular check-ups with healthcare providers are also crucial to monitor and manage heart disease risk.
Here are some ways to reduce the risk of heart disease
Here are some ways to reduce the risk of heart disease for people living with HIV:
- Regular Medical Check-ups: It's essential to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor heart health and manage any risk factors.
- Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit saturated and trans fats, salt, and sugar intake.
- Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Incorporate muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days per week.
- Quit Smoking: If you smoke, seek help to quit. Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart disease.
- Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness.
- Medication Adherence: Take your antiretroviral therapy (ART) as prescribed. Consistently taking ART can help control HIV and reduce inflammation in the body.
- Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Regularly check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. If they are high, work with your healthcare provider to manage them through lifestyle changes or medications.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Aim for a healthy weight to reduce the strain on your heart. Your healthcare provider can help you set and achieve weight goals.
- Limit Alcohol: Drink alcohol in moderation. Excessive alcohol consumption can increase blood pressure and contribute to heart disease.
By incorporating these lifestyle changes and working closely with healthcare providers, people living with HIV can significantly reduce their risk of heart disease and maintain overall cardiovascular health.
Get Involved
Get Involved with The Respect Yourself Project
Join us in making a difference! There are many ways you can get involved and support our mission of promoting heart health and HIV awareness:
- Donate: Your contributions help us fund our programs and events, providing essential resources to those in need. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant impact. Visit our website to make a donation.
- Attend Events: Participate in our engaging and educational events such as the annual "Straight 2 The Heart" dance fitness event and the Project RED Community Gala. These events are a great way to learn more about heart health and HIV while supporting our cause.
- Volunteer: We are always looking for passionate volunteers to help with our programs and events. Whether it's assisting at health fairs, helping organize fundraisers, or offering your professional skills, your time and effort are invaluable to us.
- Follow Us on Social Media: Stay updated on our latest news, events, and initiatives by following us on social media. Engage with our community, share our posts, and help spread awareness.
- Healthy Lifestyle Campaign: Join our Healthy Lifestyle Campaign by participating in our workshops, cooking classes, and fitness programs. Learn how to lead a heart-healthy life while managing and preventing HIV.