African Americans face a troubling paradox: they are 30% more likely to die from heart disease than White Americans, even though they tend to have slightly lower total cholesterol levels. According to the American Heart Association, 44.8% of Black men and 42.1% of Black women have high or borderline high cholesterol, compared to nearly half of White adults.
Researchers note that Black men report slightly higher levels of LDL—the “bad” cholesterol—while both Black men and women generally have higher HDL, the “good” cholesterol. Despite these numbers, the disparity in outcomes persists. “Scientists aren’t completely sure why some ethnic groups are at higher risk,” the article explains, pointing to genetics, obesity, and systemic factors.
Obesity is one contributor: nearly 50% of African Americans are obese, compared to 42% of Whites. A CDC report found that 48.7% of African Americans had two or more risk factors for heart disease, including diabetes, hypertension, and sedentary lifestyles.
Healthcare inequities may also play a role. Data from the Office of Minority Health show African Americans are less likely to receive certain heart medications in hospitals across several states. These gaps in treatment “may help explain the differences in heart disease outcomes for each race.”
Experts stress the importance of regular cholesterol checks, healthy eating, and physical activity, alongside addressing systemic disparities in care.
See: “Cholesterol, Heart Disease, and African Americans” (May 05, 2025)
