Heart to Heart: Black Women and Heart Health

In February during the Go Red for Women initiatives, it is crucial to highlight the significance of heart health for Black women. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women and black women face a higher risk of heart disease and related complications (stroke, heart attacks and congestive heart failure) compared to counterparts of different racial and ethnic backgrounds. Some reasons include:

Socioeconomic Factors

·????? Includes limited access to quality healthcare, lower income levels, and higher rates of uninsured individuals. These factors can impede timely medical intervention and contribute to disparities in cardiovascular health.

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·????? Limited access to healthy food options, safe spaces for physical activity, and increased exposure to stressors especially at the workplace- which are all associated with increased cardiovascular risk.

Healthcare Prejudices

·????? Unequal access to healthcare services and bias within the healthcare system can impact the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular conditions. Barriers may occur at every step, from receiving inadequate preventive care, missed early detection opportunities, and lack of optimal treatment.

Cultural Considerations

·????? Cultural factors, including cultural dietary preferences and health beliefs, can influence health behaviors which may have adverse effects on cardiovascular health.

Genetics

·????? Genetic factors include variations in genes related to blood pressure regulation, cholesterol metabolism, and inflammation.

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Increased Comorbidities

·????Black women have higher rates of obesity, diabetes and pre-diabetes, elevated cholesterol, kidney disease and hypertension when compared to white women.

Over the years significant efforts have been made to reduce the disparity gap with a focus on increasing preventative measures. Addressing disparities in cardiovascular health requires a multifaceted approach with special consideration being made to:

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Increase Awareness

·????? Awareness campaigns and community outreach programs can play a crucial role in educating black women about heart health.

·????? ?By disseminating information on risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures, individuals are empowered to make informed lifestyle choices.

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Boost Community Efforts

·????? Support networks within communities have proved powerful in promoting heart health.

·????? Shared experiences, encouragement, and mutual support contribute to a collective effort to adopt healthier lifestyles and prioritize cardiovascular well-being.

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Advance Medical Research

·????? Ongoing research has led to a better understanding of predispositions and genetic factors which may risk for cardiovascular diseases. This knowledge has facilitated the development of more targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

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Expand Access to Healthcare

·????? Augmented efforts improve healthcare access, reduce disparities, and address systemic inequalities .

·????? Something as simple as having clinic hours over the weekend or telemedicine visits have a positive impact on early detection and prevention.

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Focus on Culture Competency

·????? Greater awareness of cultural considerations within the healthcare system will improve the quality of care for Black women.

·????? Recognition for the need for more culturally competent healthcare providers and the need for educating providers on how to tailor interventions and treatment plans to better align with the unique needs and preferences of black women.

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Emphasize Improving Mental and Emotional Health

·????? Recognizing and implementing strategies to address the detrimental impact of racism, sexism and stress on the human body.

·????? ?Overall well-being goes beyond medical treatment, with stress reduction being an integral component to heart disease prevention.

?As an Internal Medicine doctor who has taken care of many women with heart issues and a black woman myself, these are a few things I think should also be considered if we wish to make great change in our cardiovascular risk

1.???? Empowering Black Women

Letting black women know that they have a right to seek information, educate themselves and advocate for their well-being and health needs.

?2.???? Recognize that Representation Matters

Healthcare initiatives focused on heart health and those especially centered around women must have black women involvement to ensure outcomes and strategies are useful for all women within a population. Clinical trials, surveys, and research studies must take a proactive stance and make sure black participants are involved.

3.???? Workplace Initiatives

Workplaces should be active participants in the health of their employees. Examples include

-Offering health insurance which covers preventative care, nutrition counseling and physical activity opportunities (ex: free gym memberships)

-Offer mental health outlets and make initiatives to reduce stress, work related burnout and racial inequality

-Create an environment where employees are not afraid to speak out against harassment, racism, unsafe work environments, or other worries at work which may be detrimental to their health

4. Governmental Involvement

-?????? Local and national governments must recognize the impact of food equality and safe environments for physical activity on cardiovascular risk. Governmental agencies and policymakers must investigate ways to provide necessary support in crucial areas like urban and underfunded neighborhoods

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While progress has been made, challenges persist, and ongoing efforts are necessary to further reduce cardiovascular disparities. Continued advocacy, research, and awareness on the part of physicians and all health care providers remain essential to building on the successes achieved. Incorporating diverse voices and experiences into heart health initiatives enriches the dialogue and contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of preventive measures, symptoms, and treatment options. The goal is not only to save lives but to empower Black women to take charge of their heart health through informed decisions and proactive lifestyle choices. Let’s do what we can to ensure that black women have the opportunity to lead heart-healthy lives.

How else do you think the heart health of black women can be prioritized?