A recent report by the American Heart Association reveals that Black communities in the United States continue to face disproportionately higher risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart disease, stroke, and hypertension. Despite some progress in reducing health disparities, the prevalence of these conditions remains alarmingly high among Black Americans, contributing to higher death rates.
The report highlights that nearly 60% of Black adults aged 20 and older have some form of CVD, compared to about 49% of all U.S. adults. Stroke prevalence is also notably higher among Black women (5.4%) and Black men (4.8%) compared to their counterparts in the general population. Hypertension is another critical issue, with 58.4% of Black women and 57.5% of Black men affected, significantly higher than the national averages.
Dr. Keith Churchwell, the chief volunteer scientific and medical officer of the American Heart Association, emphasizes the need for community-driven solutions to address these disparities. He advocates for increased access to Hands-Only CPR training, equitable healthcare, and heart health education. “Real impact happens when we work directly with communities,” Dr. Churchwell states, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts to improve health outcomes.
The American Heart Association’s initiatives during Heart Month and Black History Month aim to close the survival gap and ensure that all individuals, especially those at greatest risk, have the opportunity to live longer, healthier lives.
See: “Cardiovascular health risks continue to grow within Black communities, action needed” (February 22, 2025)
