Duplin County has experienced persistently high hypertension rates due to a combination of socioeconomic, behavioral, and healthcare access factors. The county’s largely rural setting contributes to limited access to primary care and specialists, making regular blood pressure monitoring and management challenging. High levels of poverty and food insecurity result in poor dietary patterns, including high sodium intake and low consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. Additionally, many residents engage in sedentary lifestyles and have limited access to recreational facilities that support physical activity.

Cultural norms and health literacy also play a role, as some community members may not recognize hypertension as a serious condition or may delay treatment until symptoms worsen. Lastly, systemic barriers such as lack of insurance or transportation hinder many residents from seeking timely care. Together, these issues contribute to a trend of uncontrolled and undiagnosed hypertension, fueling the county’s high rates.

• Community Health Education Programs

  • Promote awareness of high blood pressure risks, healthy eating, physical activity, and medication adherence through culturally tailored education.

• Expanded Access to Care

  • Increase access to primary care, community health workers, and mobile clinics—especially in rural areas like Duplin County.

• Team-Based Care & Care Coordination

  • Use a team approach involving nurses, pharmacists, and health coaches to support blood pressure control.

• Self-Monitoring of Blood Pressure

  • Provide patients with home blood pressure monitors and education to track their own readings regularly.

• Healthy Food Access Initiatives

  • Partner with local markets and food banks to provide fresh fruits, vegetables, and low-sodium options.

• Policy & Environmental Changes

  • Create walking trails, promote physical activity in schools/workplaces, and adopt policies that reduce sodium in public meals.

• Use of Health Information Technology

  • Track patient outcomes, send appointment/medication reminders, and flag high BP readings for follow-up.