Community Health Worker Roles in Intervention Delivery: A Scoping Review of Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Trials in the United States

Authors: Imama Ali Naqvi, Clare Bassile, S Reza Ebadi, Dakembay E Hoyte, Lauren N Paguirigan, Juan Meyreles, Glenn Mcmillan, Ian Kronish, Olajide A Williams

This review looked at 24 studies in the US on how Community Health Workers (CHWs) help prevent heart disease and stroke. CHWs played a key role by educating communities, coaching people on healthy habits, and supporting medication use, especially in underserved areas. Most studies focused on heart disease, with few addressing stroke prevention. CHWs also helped with data collection and keeping participants engaged, though their roles in research teams were often unclear and rarely recognized. The review highlights the need for clearer role definitions, standardized training, and stronger partnerships between communities and academic institutions to reduce heart disease and stroke disparities.