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Mosque-Based Health Education (M-HEaRT Initiative)

Global (UK, Austria, Bangladesh, Uganda, Tanzania, Jordan, Malaysia, USA), Global

The Mosque-Based Health Education and Research Tools (M-HEaRT) initiative equips Muslim chaplains, community health workers, and mosque leaders to deliver research-informed health education. Studies show mosque-based campaigns achieve significant reductions in cardiovascular risk unawareness and blood pressure. Imams have successfully promoted TB screening in Bangladesh, HIV prevention in Uganda, malaria control in Tanzania, and family planning in Jordan. Peer educators and Friday sermons serve as primary delivery channels.

Behavior Goal

Leverage mosque infrastructure and imam influence to improve health knowledge, reduce disease risk, and address health disparities in Muslim communities

Implementers & Partners

  • Medicine and Islam Initiative
  • Local Mosques
  • Community Health Workers

Donors & Sponsors

  • Various Academic and Foundation Partners

Key Takeaways

  • 1Mosques serve as trusted community hubs beyond worship - ideal for health promotion
  • 2Imams framing health concepts using Islamic principles increases acceptability
  • 3Friday sermons reach large audiences but primarily men; women need separate programming
  • 4Peer educators (respected, educated women) effective for gender-specific health topics

Sources

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