A recent report from the American Heart Association highlights the growing cardiovascular health risks within Black communities in the United States. Despite some progress in reducing disparities, Black Americans continue to face disproportionately higher risks of heart disease, stroke, and hypertension. These health gaps contribute to higher death rates, emphasizing the urgent need for lifesaving interventions.
Nearly 60% of Black adults aged 20 and older have some form of cardiovascular disease (CVD), including coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, and hypertension. This is compared to about 49% of all U.S. adults. Additionally, the prevalence of stroke is highest among Black women (5.4%) and Black men (4.8%), compared to all women at 2.9% and all men at 3.6%.
High blood pressure is also a significant concern, with 58.4% of Black women and 57.5% of Black men having hypertension. Black adults account for over 50% of heart failure hospitalizations among U.S. adults under 50. Dr. Keith Churchwell, chief volunteer scientific and medical officer of the American Heart Association, emphasized the need for real impact through community engagement and equitable healthcare solutions.
In summary, the report underscores the critical need for targeted interventions and systemic changes to address cardiovascular health disparities in Black communities. Efforts to improve access to care, reduce implicit biases, and promote heart health education are essential in closing the survival gap.
See: “Cardiovascular Health Risks Continue to Grow Within Black Communities, Action Needed” (February 7, 2025)
