In 2006, we announced the formation of two new and vital programs, the African-American Hepatitis Education Initiative (AAHEI) and the African-American Health Education Initiative (AAHEI) , to provide education and screening for Hepatitis and Cardiometabolic Disease.  These efforts were initially introduced in churches to create awareness; provide education and prevention strategies; treatment options and support systems to aid in combating and retarding the rise of these diseases within the African-American community.  Since most African-Americans have never been screened for these diseases, our goal is to reach as many as possible, educate and then screen them.