Despite being the fastest-growing racial group in the U.S., Asian Americans remain underrepresented in cardiovascular health research—and the consequences are becoming clear. A new scientific statement from the American Heart Association reveals that social and structural factors are driving significant disparities in heart health across Asian American communities.
The report highlights that Asian Americans are often grouped together in health data, masking critical differences among ethnic subgroups. For example, Indian Americans have the highest rates of ischemic heart disease mortality, while Vietnamese Americans lead in cerebrovascular disease deaths. South Asians also show the highest prevalence of diabetes among Asian groups.
“Social determinants of health,” such as income, education, immigration status, and neighborhood conditions, play a major role. The report notes that Burmese Americans have a median household income of $44,000, while Indian Americans earn nearly three times more. Limited English proficiency, food insecurity, and lack of health insurance further compound risks.
Historical and ongoing racism, including anti-Asian hate during the COVID-19 pandemic, has also contributed to chronic stress and reduced access to care. Many Asian immigrants avoid seeking medical help due to fear of deportation or language barriers.
The authors call for disaggregated data collection, culturally tailored interventions, and policies that address both individual and structural inequities. “Multilevel interventions are likely to be the most successful approach for achieving cardiovascular health equity,” the statement concludes.
See: “Social Determinants of Cardiovascular Health in Asian Americans: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association” (October 15, 2024)