February is American Heart Month. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. African Americans are disproportionately affected by heart disease, resulting in higher mortality rates than white Americans.
One reason for this disparity is higher rates of hypertension in Black communities. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can increase your risk of developing heart disease.
Mayo Clinic cardiologist Dr. LaPrincess Brewer talks about cardiovascular disease and reversing disturbing trends.
View: Mayo Clinic Proceedings
Journalists: Broadcast quality video (1:05) is available in the downloads at the end of this post. Courtesy: “Mayo Clinic News Network.” Please read the script.
The statistics are startling. In the United States, one person dies from cardiovascular disease every 33 seconds. High cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure can cause heart problems.
“Unfortunately, African Americans have the highest rates of uncontrolled high blood pressure in the world, dramatically increasing their risk of developing heart disease,” Dr. Brewer says.
Black Americans are disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease.
Rising rates of high blood pressure in Black communities can be attributed to a variety of factors, including chronic stress, systemic racism, and socioeconomic issues, she said.
“That includes food insecurity, housing insecurity, and redlining, which actually limits certain people from receiving opportunities and resources to improve their health,” Dr. Brewer explains.
Dr. Brewer says you can reduce high blood pressure and heart disease with simple lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and getting enough sleep to reduce stress.
