Helping People Manage High Blood Pressure Through Healthy Lifestyle Changes
The EMPOWER Hypertension Study is a 12-week research study led by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in partnership with Avicenna Community Health Center. The goal is to learn whether personalized nutrition education and healthy lifestyle support can help adults better manage high blood pressure.
High blood pressure often has no symptoms, but over time it can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Many people find it difficult to know which foods to choose or how to make lasting lifestyle changes. This study is designed to provide practical tools and ongoing support to help participants build healthier habits.
What Will Participants Do?
Participants will:
- Attend two brief in-person clinic visits (one at the beginning and one at the end of the study).
- Measure their blood pressure at home each week using a home blood pressure monitor.
- Complete online dietary recalls throughout the study to help track eating habits and receive personalized nutrition feedback.
- Complete online educational modules covering nutrition, healthy eating, physical activity, and home blood pressure management.
- Meet virtually with a registered dietitian after each dietary recall to discuss progress, answer questions, and receive individualized guidance.
Most study activities can be completed from home using a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
What Will Participants Learn?
Throughout the program, participants will receive practical guidance on how to:
- Reduce sodium (salt) intake.
- Eat more potassium-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, beans, and dairy products.
- Read Nutrition Facts labels and make healthier food choices.
- Prepare balanced meals that support heart health.
- Increase physical activity safely.
- Measure blood pressure correctly at home.
- Build healthy habits that can last beyond the study.
The program focuses on realistic lifestyle changes rather than restrictive diets.
Who Can Participate?
You may be eligible if you:
- Are 18 to 75 years old.
- Have been diagnosed with high blood pressure (hypertension).
- Have access to a smartphone, computer, or tablet with internet access.
- Are able to attend two clinic visits at Avicenna Community Health Center.
Additional eligibility criteria apply. The study team will review all requirements during the screening process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a cost to participate?
No. There is no cost to participate in the study.
Will I receive medical treatment?
No. This is a research study, not a medical treatment program. Participants continue receiving their usual medical care from their healthcare providers.
How much time will it take?
The study lasts 12 weeks. Most activities are completed online from home. Participants attend two brief clinic visits and complete weekly home blood pressure monitoring and other online study activities.
Do I need special equipment?
Participants will need access to the internet and a device such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer. The study team will provide instructions for home blood pressure monitoring.
Can I participate if I take blood pressure medication?
Many individuals taking blood pressure medication may be eligible. The study team will review your medications and determine eligibility during screening.
Why Is This Study Important?
Healthy lifestyle changes are one of the most effective ways to help manage high blood pressure. The EMPOWER Hypertension Study is evaluating whether personalized nutrition education, regular feedback, and ongoing support can help people adopt healthier habits and improve blood pressure management.
The findings from this study may help develop future community-based programs that make nutrition education and lifestyle support more accessible for individuals living with hypertension.