Cardiovascular prevention in the community: report by medical students of the Academic Merit Credit program at the University of Contestado in Mafra, SC

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), such as systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) and diabetes mellitus (DM), represent important causes of morbidity and mortality in Brazil, with a greater impact on vulnerable populations. Low adherence to treatment, combined with misinformation, cultural beliefs, and access barriers, worsens the clinical picture and increases the risk of complications. Experience Report: The intervention was carried out in May 2025, in a social housing complex in the municipality of Mafra, Santa Catarina, by two students and a professor from the Medical School at the Universidade do Contestado, affiliated with the Academic Merit Credit Program. The activity consisted of blood pressure measurements, simplified medical history taking, and guidance on lifestyle habits and proper medication use, based on national guidelines. Discussion: Low therapeutic adherence was observed through residents' reports, where they reported using continuous medications inappropriately, impacting blood pressure and capillary blood glucose levels at the time, where their practice is influenced by the perception that the absence of symptoms would indicate disease control. The intervention, conducted in accessible language appropriate to the local context, helped demystify information, encourage self-care, and strengthen community ties. Conclusion: The experience reinforces the relevance of extension actions as effective health education strategies, capable of promoting the prevention of NCDs and strengthening the role of universities in primary care, integrating health promotion, community ties, and continuous care.