Hypertension Management Project with Free YMCA Membership and In-Home Blood Pressure Monitor Now Available for South Jersey Residents
CAMDEN, N.J. – September 14, 2026: Rutgers University–Camden and Rowan University researchers, in collaboration with the Gloucester County YMCA in Woodbury, have launched a four-month research project focused on helping community members better manage high blood pressure. The team is now recruiting eligible participants for the self-monitoring blood pressure program.
The Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program is funded by the South Jersey Institute for Population Health (SJIPH) and offers a free community-based program to help adults with hypertension management and blood pressure control. Eligible participants will receive:
- A free blood pressure monitor for home use
- Bi-weekly one-on-one consultations and individualized support from a trained Healthy Heart Ambassador at the YMCA
- Monthly group nutrition education seminars
- A free four-month membership at the Gloucester County YMCA in Woodbury, with opportunities to participate in physical activity
Sangita Pudasainee-Kapri, an associate professor with Rutgers School of Nursing–Camden and co-principal investigator on the project, represents Rutgers–Camden in the collaboration.
“High blood pressure can often go unnoticed, yet it is one of the most significant risk factors for heart disease and stroke,” says Pudasainee-Kapri. “This program gives community members practical tools, education and ongoing support to better understand and manage their blood pressure in their everyday lives.”
Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Because hypertension often has no signs or symptoms, regular monitoring can help individuals and their health-care providers better understand blood pressure levels and make informed decisions about managing the condition.
Through this program, eligible participants will learn how to properly measure and record their blood pressure at home while receiving regular follow-up and support. The program is designed to help participants build knowledge and healthy habits that can support long-term blood pressure management.
The program is open to adults who meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Are at least 18 years old;
- Have been diagnosed with high blood pressure by a health-care provider;
- Have not experienced a major cardiac event, such as a heart attack or stroke, within the past six months;
- Do not have certain heart rhythm disorders, such as atrial fibrillation; and
- Are not at risk for lymphedema.
Interested in participating? Please refer to the flyer and use the QR code or webpage link (https://rowan.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cAATMyWFzRzVtSm) to complete the eligibility screening and obtain enrollment information.
For additional questions regarding the recruitment and eligibility, please contact the Glouster County YMCA at (856) 845-0720 or by email (welcomecenter@ycamp.org).
For questions about the research project please contact Sangita Pudasainee-Kapri (sangita.pudasaineekapri@rutgers.edu).
About Rutgers University–Camden
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