Jan 31, 2025 Story by: Editor
The American Heart Association’s 2025 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update highlights stark racial and gender disparities in cardiovascular health, emphasizing the severe impact heart disease has on marginalized communities. The report reveals that non-Hispanic Black adults face an age-adjusted mortality rate of 379.7 per 100,000 due to cardiovascular disease (CVD), whereas the rate is significantly lower among non-Hispanic Asian females, at just 104.9 per 100,000. Researchers noted that these disparities illustrate the disproportionate challenges underrepresented groups encounter in accessing equitable healthcare and preventive measures.
Women, particularly during and after pregnancy, also face considerable cardiovascular health risks. From 2007 to 2019, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy doubled, with conditions such as preeclampsia and gestational hypertension leading to severe maternal and neonatal health consequences. Black women are especially vulnerable, experiencing higher rates of these conditions, which can result in long-term cardiovascular issues. Furthermore, cases of gestational diabetes surged by 38% between 2016 and 2021, with older mothers facing nearly six times the risk compared to younger mothers. The study also found that poor sleep quality exacerbates these risks, particularly for women, who are up to 2.3 times more likely to report insomnia symptoms than men. According to the report, inadequate sleep is strongly associated with a higher likelihood of strokes and other cardiovascular events.
The study underscores that social determinants of health—such as economic status, education, and geographic location—worsen these disparities. Individuals living in rural areas or regions with limited healthcare facilities struggle with access to screenings, nutritious food, and consistent medical care. For example, patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) residing in zip codes where the median household income is under $40,000 are at a significantly higher risk of undergoing amputations. The report also highlighted racial disparities in emergency care, with Black individuals suffering out-of-hospital cardiac arrests being 27% less likely to receive bystander CPR at home and 37% less likely in public spaces compared to White individuals, even when accounting for income levels.
“We have the tools to address these inequities, but they require a commitment to prioritizing the health of all communities,” stated Dr. Seth Martin, who chaired the report. Officials emphasized the AHA’s “Life’s Essential 8” framework as a guideline for enhancing cardiovascular health. This model recommends adopting healthier diets, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing cholesterol and glucose levels effectively. However, the report indicates that over 80% of U.S. adults fall short of these criteria, with the average diet quality score standing at just 59 out of 100. These disparities are evident across racial, income, and education levels. Researchers stressed that improving these health metrics could significantly reduce major cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes.
Community health programs play a pivotal role in mitigating these health disparities. Expanding access to healthy foods, fitness facilities, and educational resources can help lower risk factors. Research suggests that reallocating just seven minutes of sedentary time daily to moderate or vigorous physical activity can yield considerable improvements in cardiometabolic health, including reductions in body mass index (BMI) and blood sugar levels.
Maternal health remains another critical focus area. Programs promoting early intervention and regular monitoring for pregnant women—particularly those at high risk—can help prevent complications like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly, have been found to reduce the likelihood of hypertensive pregnancy disorders by nearly 50%. Dr. Yvonne Commodore-Mensah, a contributor to the report, emphasized the need for systemic solutions to address these disparities. “When we examine cardiovascular health, it’s clear that social determinants and structural inequities remain significant barriers. Improving health equity means removing these barriers,” she said. The report also shed light on the financial impact of cardiovascular disease, which amounted to $417.9 billion in 2021 alone. Prescription medications and medical visits were identified as the primary cost drivers, but disparities in healthcare access often result in more severe and expensive consequences for marginalized populations. Addressing these challenges, the report concluded, requires collective efforts from policymakers, healthcare providers, and community leaders. Measures such as expanding Medicaid, increasing funding for local health programs, and ensuring the equitable distribution of resources can help bridge these gaps. “Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally,” said Dr. Mitchell Elkind, another key contributor to the report. “Progress is possible, but it demands both innovation in healthcare and a commitment to equity.” Source: Black Press USA
