The TN MMC HBCU Wellness Project and the TN Department of Health via the Chronic Disease and Prevention Unit will examine metrics that continue to impact Hypertension rates in rural counties.

The project aims to assess health indicators and food accessibility in selected rural counties of Tennessee. The goals are to identify food deserts, evaluate the availability of healthy food options, and understand the transportation options available to residents. The focus will be on areas with high rates of cardiovascular diseases and hypertension. The project will analyze local grocery store metrics, the prevalence of fast-food establishments, and the availability of fresh fruits and vegetables. 

The initial focus will be on specific rural counties in Tennessee, particularly near Memphis and Chattanooga. Counties will be selected based on priority populations that are predominantly unemployed, uninsured or underinsured, and from various racial and ethnic backgrounds with low income.