A new scientific statement from the American Heart Association, published in Circulation, highlights how social factors uniquely impact the cardiovascular health of various Asian American subgroups. The report emphasizes that immigration status, socioeconomic position, and access to healthcare contribute to differences in heart disease and stroke risks among Asian Americans, who are the fastest-growing ethnic group in the U.S.
The study found that Asian Americans are often underrepresented in medical research, partly due to language barriers and a reluctance to participate in studies. This underrepresentation can obscure the specific health needs of different Asian subgroups, such as Chinese, Indian, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, and Japanese Americans.
Dr. Nilay S. Shah, chair of the statement writing group and assistant professor of cardiology and preventive medicine at Northwestern University, noted, “Asian American ethnic groups should be individually identified since each subgroup represents a unique population with distinct social, cultural and health characteristics.”
The report also addresses the historical context of structural racism and anti-Asian prejudice, such as the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act and the forced incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II, which have long-term effects on health outcomes. These factors, combined with current social determinants, influence health behaviors and disease risk in Asian ethnic groups.
The findings call for more research to understand and address these disparities. By recognizing the unique challenges faced by different Asian American subgroups, healthcare providers and policymakers can develop targeted interventions to improve cardiovascular health and reduce health disparities in these communities.
See “Social factors may affect heart health of Asian ethnicities in the US differently” (September 16, 2024)
