Dark chocolate and other cocoa products are popular in the population as a whole, but their overall health benefit remains controversial. Observations from the Kuna Indian population have shown an impressive cardiovascular health benefit from cocoa. For various reasons, this benefit has not been as robust as in other populations. Additionally, several mechanisms have been proposed that might confer cocoa's possible health benefit, but no consensus has been reached on cocoa's physiologic role in promoting cardiovascular health. Flavanols, as well as theobromine, may contribute to enhancements in endothelial function and subsequent improvements in various contributors to cardiovascular disease (CVD) including hypertension, platelet aggregation and adhesion, insulin resistance, and hypercholesterolemia. While the benefits of cocoa may be altered at the various stages of growth, development, and production, it appears that for many people “healthy” dark chocolate may, indeed, provide a pleasurable role in CVD risk reduction. The objectives of this review are to discuss the associations of cocoa with decreased blood pressure and improved CVD risk, to describe the possible mechanisms for these potential benefits, and to highlight considerations for the use of cocoa as a dietary supplement.

Introduction: Health fair-type screenings are one of the most recognizable forms of community-based health promotion. Though these screenings offer benefits in theory, little evidence supports their value. Through REAP, Mississippi Kidney Foundation routinely provides screenings for cardiovascular and renal disease risk factors. At each screening, participants obtain blood pressure, height, weight, laboratory assessments (metabolic/renal blood chemistries, complete blood count, total cholesterol, urinalysis) and complete a questionnaire regarding risk factors and disease history. Participants also receive written information about values/goals and consultation with a healthcare provider. Without a systematic evaluation, the overall value of this program is unknown. The purpose of this study was to review the impact and results of REAP and identify any changes that could improve outreach and patient care. Methods: We reviewed demographics and prevalence of cardiovascular and renal disease risk factors among participants over the previous 4 years (2010-2013). Screening sites were classified as urban or rural, according to census data. Risk factors were defined as elevated blood pressure (SBP ≥ 140 mmHg and/or DBP ≥ 90 mmHg), cholesterol (total > 200 mg/dL), or blood glucose (fasting ≥ 100 mg/dL); reduced kidney function (elevated BUN/Cr and/or eGFR < 60 ml/min); and proteinuria (≥ 30 mg/dL). Results: Over the review period, 57 screenings were performed at 34 sites, 15 classified as rural. Of the 5,545 participants, 4,299 were at urban and 1,246 at rural sites. Overall, 1,760 (32%) had elevated blood pressure (36% vs 31%, rural vs urban, respectively), 2,013 (36%, 40% vs 35%) elevated cholesterol and 1,046 (19%, 23% vs 18%) elevated glucose. Reduced kidney function was identified in 762 (14%, 15% vs 13%) participants, while 1,423 (26%, 29% vs 25%) had proteinuria. Among those reporting ethnicity (n=1,948) and gender (n=3,164), 614 (32%) were Caucasian, 1,290 (66%) African-American, and 2,270 (72%) female. Conclusions: Through this review, we determined that though REAP appears to target at risk populations, further efforts are needed to improve participation of males and those in rural areas. Elevated risk factors were more prevalent in rural areas; however, this may reflect differences in treatment rates, not absolute values. To better assess the impact of REAP, define risk factors, and influence patient care, we identified that more rigorous tracking, review of disease and treatment history, and further assessments are needed (i.e. full lipid panel). A graded system targeting patient follow-up is necessary, particularly among those at greatest risk. Based on these findings, these changes will be implemented, along with a post-screening evaluation of participants’ perceived benefits and result utilization.