Both programs are sponsored by ISHIB(The International Society on Hypertension in Blacks).

The leaders forum's theme is: "Skills Building for Eliminating Health Disparities." A range of community leaders are expected to participate from Detroit's academic institutions, businesses and industries to government agencies, faith communities, hospitals and healthcare associations. The forum, an invitation-only luncheon seminar, will be held at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center.

The leaders forum's objective is to provide techniques and skills to decrease the rate of heart disease and other health disparities found among ethnic populations. Heart disease is the number one cause of death and disability in all Americans, but minorities are particularly at risk.

One of Professor Clark's areas of research includes cardiovascular psychophysiology/epidemiology particularly among minorities. Clark has been on Wayne State's faculty since 1997.

The health risk assessment education program, which is being held at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit, is designed to provide local residents an opportunity to learn about cardiovascular disease and take charge of their health. The program will include: screening for blood pressure; cholesterol; diabetes, medicine counseling and educational material. The event is free and open to the public.