WASHINGTON, D.C. -- United States Senator Daniel K. Inouye is pleased to announce that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Public Health Service Office of Minority Health awarded a $450,000 federal grant to Ke Ola Mamo for its three year Hooikaika No Waianae program designed to improve the health of Native Hawaiians on Oahu.

"I am pleased that the Department of Health and Human Services has appropriated funds for this much needed program. Native Hawaiians have the highest rate of chronic illness in the nation. The Hooikaika No Waianae program will offer an array of services to help reduce the rate of stroke, complications from diabetes, heart disease, and other health problems which plague Native Hawaiians," stated Senator Inouye.

The Hooikaika No Waianae program is based on a pilot project started last year which combines nutrition education with an exercise program. Test results of participants taken at the beginning of the program and upon completion showed improvements in participants' blood pressure, weight and endurance. Early detection, health education, motivation to exercise, and preventive medical care are the major services provided by the program. The program is based in the Waianae district, with primary medical care provided through a collaboration with the Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center.

A battery of tests will be administered to every program participant at the time of enrollment and every 10 weeks after that for up to a year. During the participant's second year, the tests will be done every six months. The tests include blood draws for cholesterol and glucose levels; strength, flexibility and endurance tests; body composition; and vital signs.